The Federal Trade Commission is at it again.

Americans are increasingly turning to the Internet for information related to their health. Thursday, federal officials announced stepped-up efforts to counter "fraudulent" online claims that promise to cure ailments from arthritis to AIDS. According to the FTC, more than 20 million Americans look to the Internet for health information -- 70% of them before visiting a doctor's office. Officials are concerned that people will not be able to make rational choices about their own health. As we have said many times at www.choosehealth.com, research the facts and ask questions.

Jodie Bernstein, director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection says "when information on Web sites is deceptive and untruthful, consumers are at risk." (Kind of like what the drug industry and medical profession have done for years.)

The FTC said it is aiming to "put the quacks out of business" with tougher enforcement by federal and state authorities and a new consumer education campaign. The FTC recommends that consumers interested in gaining "medical" advice online start at U.S. government Web sites that provide links to reputable sources of information. (Sounds like a government filter to me.)

FTC Officials said consumers should stay away from sites that:
* Use phrases like "scientific breakthrough"
* Include impressive-sounding terminology to disguise a lack of scientific proof.
* Claim the government or other groups have conspired to suppress the product.