The Content Evaluation of Tobacco Cessation Information on Internet Web-Sites in Korea

Abstract

In this study, quality of tobacco cessation information provided through Internet web sites was evaluated in terms of clarity of objectives, suitability, accuracy, reliability and usability. This study limited to those internet web sites developed and delivered by Korean public health service organizations or their related institutions or associations. This study analyzed 8 internet web sites and evaluation criteria developed by Chung, Yong Chul and Park, Hyeoun Ae (2000) were used. Study results indicated that objectives of those sites were not described or not clear; the types of audiences of those sites were not evident; Sources of the information were not clearly documented; sponsored institutions or organizations were not clearly identified; authors/editors credentials were not clearly stated. The development of guidelines for standardized health information on Internet web sites is necessary.