I asked experts whether I should use ChatGPT for health advice, and I was shocked (www.techradar.com)

A growing number of individuals are turning to AI tools like ChatGPT for health advice, leveraging these platforms to decode symptoms, understand medical terminology, and prepare for appointments. This shift highlights a notable trend: AI's conversational and personalized nature makes it more appealing than traditional internet searches, as it can provide immediate and seemingly reassuring responses. Experts believe that while there are potential positive impacts, such as enhancing patient engagement and understanding of health issues, the reliance on AI for medical insights raises significant concerns about misinformation, context understanding, and health equity. The risks associated with using AI for health-related inquiries include the potential for incorrect or overly simplistic responses, particularly when users don't know how to frame their questions effectively. Healthcare professionals stress that AI should complement, rather than replace, professional medical advice. They recommend using AI for lower-risk tasks, such as diet and exercise guidance, while remaining cautious about relying on it for diagnosis or treatment changes. As AI tools continue to evolve, the challenge lies in ensuring that users are informed, cautious, and aware of the limitations inherent in these technologies.