Previously submitted to: Interactive Journal of Medical Research (no longer under consideration since Feb 06, 2019)
Date Submitted: Oct 26, 2018
Open Peer Review Period: Oct 27, 2018 - Dec 22, 2018
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What Information Can the Lay Public Find About Osteoporosis Treatment? A Descriptive Study Coding the Content and Quality of Bisphosphonate Information on the Internet
Background:
The US Preventative Services Task Force recommends osteoporosis screening and treatment with bisphosphonates in high risk populations. However, bisphosphonate use among individuals with osteoporosis remains low and has declined in recent years. The content and quality of information from outside sources may influence individuals’ bisphosphonate decisions.
Objective:
To assess the content and quality of osteoporosis treatment information available to the public by conducting an internet search and coding available bisphosphonate information.
Methods:
Nine search terms about osteoporosis and bisphosphonates were entered into four search engines. Two raters assessed websites for information about bisphosphonates, whether and how benefits and side effects were described and quantified, contraindications, and dosing instructions. Coders also assessed website interface and slant/balance of information.
Results:
1044 websites were identified. 202 websites met inclusion criteria and were coded. The most common bisphosphonate benefit described was prevention of bone density loss (77.2% of websites). The most common side effects described were gastrointestinal problems (65.3%) and jaw osteonecrosis (60.4%). Most websites did not quantify bisphosphonate benefits (76.7%) or side effects (81.2%). Complementary/integrative health websites (p = .000) and pharmaceutical litigation websites (p = .000) were more often slanted against taking bisphosphonates, compared to all websites coded. General medical knowledge websites were more balanced than other websites (p = .05).
Conclusions:
The quality of bisphosphonate information on the internet varies substantially. Providers counseling patients about osteoporosis treatment should inquire about patients’ baseline bisphosphonate knowledge. Providers can complement accurate information and address potential bisphosphonate misconceptions.
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