Google AI Overviews spread inaccurate health information
The Guardian investigation found that Google AI Overviews provided inaccurate health information at the top of search results, including wrong advice on pancreatic cancer dietary recommendations and incorrect liver function test information. Health experts warned these errors could potentially harm patients, particularly those seeking medical information during health crises.
What happened
The Guardian investigation found that Google AI Overviews, which appear at the top of search results, served inaccurate health information in multiple cases.
In one case, Google wrongly advised people with pancreatic cancer to avoid high-fat foods, the opposite of medical recommendation. In another case, the system provided incorrect information about liver function tests. Google searches also returned completely wrong information about women's cancer tests.
Reported impact
Experts said the pancreatic cancer advice was 'really dangerous' and may increase the risk of patients dying from the disease. Experts described the liver function test information as 'alarming' and said it could leave people with serious liver disease wrongly thinking they are healthy.
Directors of health charities said inaccurate information could seriously harm people's health, particularly those in moments of worry and crisis who might dismiss genuine symptoms.
Index analysis
Google stated that the AI Overviews are 'helpful' and 'reliable' and that many examples shared were 'incomplete screenshots' that linked to well-known, reputable sources.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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