The net is having a profound effect on medicine, as in all fields, not least because researchers in medical labs can share research with colleagues around the world.

There are also thousands of websites claiming to be able to diagnose and cure illnesses online, but there are concerns about how much the information provided can be trusted.



Although a physical appointment with a GP might provide a quick diagnosis and prescription, many feel it is not long enough to get enough information about health problems.



The net is providing many with what they want, and this is creating a growing breed of so-called cyberchondriacs.



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