This listing of World Wide Web sites is intended to help pharmacists direct patients to credible, useful information about common diseases and conditions. The listing is arranged alphabetically according to disease or condition, with up to five Web sites listed for each disease or condition.

The sites listed for each disease or condition were selected because the information they provide was created specifically for, or is at a level that will be understood by, patients. This list is not all-inclusive and was current as of the print date of this directory.

This icon at the beginning of a URL indicates that a site also has information directed at health care professionals. In a few instances, sites contain information appropriate for health care professionals only; these sites are indicated by a note within the site description indicating that the information is not suitable for patients.

Web sites were identified using one or more medical search engines (such as the search functions provided on medsite.com and healthfinder.gov) and key subject terms. The decision to include or not to include a site was based on a number of considerations, including the following:

• Does the Web site provide information that is in-depth, reliable, and scientifically accurate? Is the information evidence-based? Does it reflect current practice standards and guidelines?
• Who is responsible for preparing and reviewing or verifying the information provided on the site? Does the information come from a trusted, authoritative source, such as a physician or physician group with expertise in the subject area; a recognized health-related organization, agency, or association; a university; or a group dedicated to creating high-quality health education materials (e.g., adam.com)? Does the site provide a method (e.g., e-mail address) for users to contact them?
• How current is the information? Is a copyright date or other date listed? Is information on the site updated regularly (and can this be determined easily)? If hyperlinks to other Web sites are provided, are they up-to-date and reliable?
• Does the site include a disclaimer describing the limitations, purpose, scope, authority, and currentness of the information?
• Does the site comply with voluntary or mandatory approval criteria?
• Does the layout and design of the site enhance the delivery of the information? Could the average user navigate the site easily?
• Does the Web site show a minimum of bias? Does the site have a particular political or social agenda? Is any of the information obviously biased or designed to sway opinion?
• Is there any unnecessary advertising on the site?

Unfortunately, listings of this type have an inherent degree of subjectivity. The American Pharmacists Association and Roche Laboratories Inc. do not endorse the Web sites listed herein, nor do we mean to imply that these sites are in any way the best available for each topic or even better than some others that might not be listed. The information available at or though the Web sites listed herein may not support the views and opinions of the American Pharmacists Association and Roche Laboratories Inc.

The American Pharmacists Association and Roche Laboratories Inc. make no warranty whatsoever, expressed or implied, including any warranty as to accuracy, completeness, or timeliness concerning the information or views available at or through the Web sites listed herein. These Web sites are provided in the interest of helping consumers become more aware of their personal health; the information is not, nor is it intended to be, medical advice, and it should not be considered as a substitute for the advice of a physician. Persons who need medical advice should be directed to a physician. Users of this guide should not assume that the information available at or through the Web sites listed herein is the most accurate, complete, up-to-date information available. The American Pharmacists Association and Roche Laboratories Inc. shall not be liable in any way for any loss, claim, or damages caused in whole or in part by our providing or persons using any of the information available at or though the Web sites listed herein.