Its a story about a young woman I read online, she was in her early 30s, dedicated and hardworking. Her job at the Assam Police Service demanded long hours and constant attention, leaving her with little time to think about her own health. About a year ago in July 2024, she noticed a small painless lump in her breast. Instead of consulting a doctor, she made what she later called āthe stupidest mistakeā- she turned to Google. After reading a few articles online, she convinced herself that it was just a fibroadenoma, a harmless condition. Relieved by this self-diagnosis, she chose to ignore it.
About six months later, she discovered another lump nearby on the same breast. This time, worry set in. She finally visited a doctor, who advised an FNAC and biopsy. The results were shocking- the first lump turned out to be cancerous, while the second one was not. She immediately started treatment, but the delay had already reduced her chances of preventing the cancer at an earlier stage.
This story reflects a common problem in todayās world. Many patients rely too heavily on āDr. Googleā. Broadly, they fall into two categories:
First, Those who do excessive online research and walk into the doctorās chamber armed with half-baked theories and self diagnosis, often overwhelming or irritating the doctor with misinformation and baseless questions.
Second, Those who- like this young woman, dismiss serious symptoms by relying on what they read online and doing self remedies, instead of seeking timely medical help.
The lesson is clear, Google can provide information, but it cannot replace a doctorās expertise. We must learn where to draw the line between being informed and being misled.
Google can give us knowledge, but not diagnosis. Ignoring symptoms or delaying consultation can save the money but cost precious time. Early medical advice is always the safest choice.