Wagner, Todd H.Baker, Laurence C.Bundorf, M. KateSinger, Sara2011-05-102004Wagner, Todd H., Laurence C. Baker, M. Kate Bundorf, and Sara Singer. 2004. Use of the Internet for health information by the chronically ill. Preventing Chronic Disease 1(4).1545-1151http://nrs.harvard.edu/urn-3:HUL.InstRepos:4885944Introduction: Chronic conditions are among the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. The Internet is a source of health information and advice for individuals with chronic conditions and shows promise for helping individuals manage their conditions and improve their quality of life. Methods: We assessed Internet use for health information by people who had one or more of five common chronic conditions. We conducted a national survey of adults aged 21 and older, then analyzed data from 1980 respondents who had Internet access and who reported that they had hypertension, diabetes, cancer, heart problems, and/or depression. Results: Adjusted rates for any Internet use for health information ranged from 33.8% (heart problems only) to 52.0% (diabetes only). A sizable minority of respondents — particularly individuals with diabetes — reported that the Internet helped them to manage their condition themselves, and 7.9% said information on the Internet led them to seek care from a different doctor. Conclusion: Use of the Internet for health information by chronically ill patients is moderate. Self-reported effects on choice of treatment or provider are small but noteworthy.en-USJournal Article2011-05-10