HealthClues is committed to providing accurate, balanced, and evidence-based health information. This page describes our editorial standards and review process.
Our Editorial Mission
Our mission is to be the most trusted source of accessible, evidence-based health information on the internet. We achieve this through rigorous editorial standards, medical review, and transparent practices.
Content Standards
Evidence-Based
All health claims on HealthClues must be supported by credible scientific evidence. We primarily cite peer-reviewed research published in reputable journals. We clearly distinguish between established science and emerging research. We do not publish health claims based solely on anecdotal evidence, celebrity endorsements, or manufacturer claims.
Accurate and Current
We regularly review and update our content to reflect the latest scientific research and medical guidelines. All articles display a "last updated" date. When scientific consensus changes, we update content promptly.
Balanced and Objective
We present multiple perspectives on contested health topics and acknowledge areas of scientific uncertainty. We do not favor any particular diet, treatment approach, or health philosophy without scientific justification.
Our Content Process
All health content on HealthClues currently goes through this process. We are transparent that it does not yet include formal review by a licensed clinician on every article — see our Editorial & Fact-Checking Process page for full details and our plan to change that over time.
- Research and Writing: Content is researched and written against primary sources — peer-reviewed journals, government health agencies, and recognized clinical bodies
- Fact-Checking: Every statistic and specific claim is cross-checked against the cited source, with links provided so readers can verify them directly
- Editorial Review: Content is reviewed internally for accuracy, balance, and quality before publishing
- Clinical Review (in progress): We are bringing on licensed healthcare professionals to review higher-risk medical topics. Articles that have completed this step will be marked "Clinically Reviewed" with the reviewer's real name and credentials
- Ongoing Updates: Content is periodically re-reviewed and updated as new research emerges
Sources We Use
We prioritize evidence from: systematic reviews and meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort and observational studies, official health organization guidelines (WHO, NIH, CDC, NHS), peer-reviewed journals (NEJM, JAMA, The Lancet, BMJ, etc.), and authoritative medical textbooks.
We avoid: non-peer-reviewed claims, single-study findings presented as definitive, commercial health claims, and anecdotal evidence presented as medical advice.
Independence from Advertising
Advertising revenue is essential to keeping HealthClues free. However, our editorial content is completely independent from our advertising operations. Advertisers have no influence over our content, rankings, or recommendations. We do not write favorable content in exchange for advertising.
Corrections Policy
When errors are identified, we correct them promptly and transparently. Significant corrections are noted on the affected article. To report an error or inaccuracy, please use our Contact page.