According to a study carried out by US scientists, Wikipedia, the online encyclopaedia, contains errors in nine out of 10 of its entries regarding health. As a result of this it should be treated with caution and people are being urged to go to their GP with health concerns rather than rely on this internet based guide.

One of the main issues with Wikipedia is that it has an open access nature and therefore can be edited by anyone. However, it is checked regularly by medical professionals for inaccuracies in the literature.

Nonetheless, Wikipedia should not take the place of a medical professional and anyone with concerns over their health should seek the advice of their GP.