Seek Out Information

Now that you know your treatment options, you can learn which ones are backed up by the best scientific evidence. "Evidence-based" information—that is, information that is based on a careful review of the latest scientific findings in medical journals—can help you make decisions about the best possible treatments for you.

Evidence-based Information Comes From Research on People Like You

Evidence-based information about treatments generally comes from two major types of scientific studies:

·                    Clinical trials are research studies on human volunteers to test new drugs or other treatments. Participants are randomly assigned to different treatment groups. Some get the research treatment, and others get a standard treatment or may be given a placebo (a medicine that has no effect), or no treatment. The results are compared to learn whether the new treatment is safe and effective.

·                    Outcomes research looks at the impact of treatments and other health care on health outcomes (end results) for patients and populations. End results include effects that people care about, such as changes in their quality of life.

Take Advantage of the Evidence-based Information That Is Available

Health information is everywhere—in books, newspapers, and magazines, and on the Internet, television, and radio. However, not all information is good information. Your best bets for sources of evidence-based information include the Federal Government, national nonprofit organizations, medical specialty groups, medical schools, and university medical centers.

Information

Information about your disease or condition and its treatment is available from many sources. Here are some of the most reliable:

·                    healthfinder®:
The healthfinder® site—sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services—offers carefully selected health information Web sites from government agencies, clearinghouses, nonprofit groups, and universities.
Go to: http://www.healthfinder.gov/organizations/OrgListing.asp

Current Medical Research

You can find the latest medical research in medical journals at your local health or medical library, and in some cases, on the Internet.

Here are a few sites to visit.

http://multiplesclerosis.blogharbor.com/

- this site has the latest about research, information, and treatments.

- to see the full article click on the word more

- you can view past articles through the archives

 

http://www.mswatch.ca

- Copaxone in Canada

 

http://www.mswatch.com

- Copaxone in the states

 

http://multiplesclerosis.com/

 

http://www.championsofcourage.org/

 

http://www.medhelpinternational.com/HealthTopics/Multiple_Sclerosis.html

 

http://www.mssociety.ca

 

http://www.mssociety.org.uk/

 

http://www.mswebpals.org/

- designed by Jooley, who has MS.  This is from Britain.  This is a very good place to go for information and to chat to others who have MS.

 

http://www.msworld.org/

 

http://www.mult-sclerosis.org/

 

http://www.nmss.org/

 

http://www.tevaneuroscience.com/

 

·                    National Guideline Clearinghouse™:
The National Guideline Clearinghouse™ is a database of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines and related documents. Clinical practice guidelines are documents designed to help doctors and patients make decisions about appropriate health care for specific diseases or conditions. The clearinghouse was originally created by AHRQ in partnership with the American Medical Association and America's Health Insurance Plans.
Go to: www.guideline.gov

 

Steer Clear of Deceptive Ads and Information

While searching for information either on or off the Internet, beware of "miracle" treatments and cures. They can cost you money and your health, especially if you delay or refuse proper treatment. Here are some tip-offs that a product truly is too good to be true:

·                    Phrases such as "scientific breakthrough," "miraculous cure," "exclusive product," "secret formula," or "ancient ingredient."

·                    Claims that the product treats a wide range of ailments.

·                    Use of impressive-sounding medical terms. These often cover up a lack of good science behind the product.

·                    Case histories from consumers claiming "amazing" results.

·                    Claims that the product is available from only one source, and for a limited time only.

·                    Claims of a "money-back guarantee."

·                    Claims that others are trying to keep the product off the market.

·                    Ads that fail to list the company's name, address, or other contact information.