Searching for Parkinson’s info online? Think twice before trusting Dr. Google 

When you or someone you care about lives with Parkinson’s, it’s natural to look for answers. Online searches can feel empowering, but they can also lead to misinformation, false hope, and even harm. Some so-called “miracle cures” not only cost money, they can also cost you energy, well-being, and peace of mind. 

That’s why Parkinson Canada invited Dr. Benzi Kluger—neurologist and palliative care expert—to lead a webinar on how to spot misleading health claims. 

Why does Parkinson’s misinformation spread? 

Parkinson’s is complex, and right now, there is no known cure. That reality can be difficult, and scammers know it. They often use fear, fake hope, and slick marketing to promote treatments that haven’t been tested, reviewed, or proven to work. 

Misinformation isn’t just a problem for people new to the condition or unfamiliar with the science; it can affect anyone. Even health care professionals can be misled by persuasive language or pseudoscience dressed up as real research. 

How can I spot misinformation? 

Here are Dr. Kluger’s 10 red flags for spotting medical misinformation and unreliable experts: 

  1. The hard sell 
    • If the message is “buy now” instead of “learn more,” take a step back. Your health isn’t a sales pitch. 
  1. Over-the-top hype 
    • Watch for words like miraculous, breakthrough, revolutionary, or secret cure. Real science doesn’t shout. 
  1. More ads than research 
    • If there’s more hype than research, and especially if the research is of poor quality, it’s likely marketing, not medicine. 
  1. Celebrity endorsements 
    • Famous faces don’t make something true. Seek credible sources with clinical expertise in Parkinson’s care. 
  1. Claims that reject science 
    • If a site says, “doctors don’t want you to know this” or “this goes against what your doctor says,” be cautious. 
  1. A single source 
    • If all the information traces back to one person or website, it’s probably unreliable. Research conducted on animals, studies that are observational in nature, or studies without any control group are NOT sufficient to conclude that something is safe and effective in people.  
  1. Confusion and fear tactics 
    • If you feel scared or pressured after reading something or speaking with an “expert,” it’s likely manipulation, not guidance. 
  1. Discouraging second opinions 
    • If someone tells you not to talk to your doctor or to stop proven treatments, they should not be trusted. Your doctor and health care team know the history of your health. 
  1. Too-good-to-be-true results 
    • If a product claims to cure everything, it likely cures nothing. 
  1. Credentials don’t match the claims 
    • If a Nobel-winning physicist is talking about nutrition or a surgeon is trying to sell detox kits, look the other way. A scientist or doctor speaking outside their area of expertise can still mislead. Trust professionals trained in neurological health and Parkinson’s care. 

What can you do to stay safe? 

  • Ask questions. Your health is worth it. Be skeptical and stay curious. 
  • Use trusted sources. Sites like PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov offer peer-reviewed and publicly available research. 
  • Talk to your doctor. Bring your questions and don’t hesitate to get a second opinion. 
  • Stick with what works. Proven medications (like levodopa), regular exercise, and support from a trusted care team remain the foundation of Parkinson’s treatment. 

Keep learning with us! 

At Parkinson Canada, we understand how overwhelming it can feel to separate fact from fiction. That is why we offer webinars, fact sheets, and other resources. You can watch Dr. Kluger’s full presentation and subscribe to our newsletter for trusted updates.  

Watch: Dr. Google, and how to spot Parkinson’s misinformation

“There’s nothing more precious than your life and your health. So, we’ve really got to do everything possible to protect it.”

-Dr. Kluger