A study has revealed that Google’s AI overviews are giving dangerous and incorrect information on health matters.
A study by a British newspaper has revealed that Google’s artificial intelligence-based AI overviews, which are shown at the beginning of search results, are providing incorrect and dangerous information on some health matters that can pose a serious risk to patients.
The report said that in one example, Google’s AI advised pancreatic cancer patients to avoid a high-fat diet, which experts described as medically incorrect and said that it could worsen the patient’s condition. Similarly, the information given regarding liver function tests was also flawed, due to which people suffering from serious illness may consider themselves healthy.
Health and welfare experts have warned that such misinformation can divert patients from timely treatment and, in some cases, can even prove fatal. Sophie Randall, director of the Patients’ Rights Forum, says that Google’s AI overviews appear to provide convenience, but misinformation can pose a risk to users’ health. Similarly, Stephanie Parker, a representative of the Marie Curie charity, said that people rely on the internet when they are sick or worried, and if the information is wrong, the damage is multiplied.
According to The Guardian, AI overviews’ advice on psychology and dietary habits can also prove dangerous. Google responded by saying that most AI overviews are accurate and helpful and that the company is constantly working to improve quality.
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