Title : Decoding complexity: Readability analysis of public online health information on common neurological diagnoses
Abstract:
Neurological disorders, comprising conditions like dementia, migraines, and stroke, pose significant health challenges globally. In the digital age, individuals increasingly turn to online platforms for health information. Given the intricate nature of neurological conditions, evaluating the readability of online content is paramount. This study aims to assess the readability of information related to dementia, migraines, and stroke provided by reputable health websites.
Selection of websites was based on authority and prevalence in Google search results. Common domains within the top ten search results for each condition were identified. Data extraction and cleaning were conducted in Microsoft Excel, followed by the application of five readability indices to assess text complexity. Descriptive statistics were then calculated to analyse readability scores across different neurology diagnoses and websites.
Findings from commonly used resources such as Mayo Clinic, NIH, and Cleveland Clinic indicate variations in readability scores across different websites and neurology diagnoses. Importantly, the results suggest that publicly accessible data tends to be presented at a higher reading level than what is recommended for general comprehension. This has critical implications for patient education and health literacy.
Assessing the readability of online health information for neurological conditions is vital to ensure accessibility and comprehension for diverse audiences. This study contributes valuable insights into the readability landscape of reputable health websites, indicating a potential discrepancy between the complexity of information and the general public's reading ability. Recognizing and addressing this gap is essential for enhancing patient education and empowerment, ultimately improving health outcomes in the realm of neurology.
Audience Take Away Notes:
- Variability in Readability Scores: The study highlights the notable variability in readability scores across reputable health websites when addressing neurological conditions such as dementia, migraines, and stroke. This emphasizes the need for a nuanced approach to cater to diverse audience reading levels.
- Concerns About Accessibility: The preliminary findings suggest that publicly accessible health information on neurological disorders may be presented at a reading level higher than recommended for general comprehension. This raises concerns about the accessibility of crucial health information to a broad audience.
- Implications for Patient Education: The study sheds light on the potential impact of readability on patient education. Understanding the readability landscape of reputable health websites is essential for developing effective strategies to enhance health literacy, particularly in the context of complex neurological conditions.
- Health Literacy Challenges: By exploring readability scores for specific neurology diagnoses, the research contributes to the broader discussion on health literacy challenges. It provides insights into areas where improvements are needed to bridge the gap between complex medical information and public understanding.
- Future Directions for Research: The project opens avenues for future research in exploring readability and health literacy across various medical disciplines. It prompts considerations for refining communication strategies to better align with the diverse literacy levels of the general public.
