On Mayo Clinic Connect, we recognize the value of peer-to-peer sharing. Patients, caregivers, family and friends know things — about themselves, about their family members, about treatments, about choices — and they want to share what they know to help other people. By sharing about our health experiences together, we build a collective knowledge and community of support.

It is important to remember that not every statement made by members is true. However, by allowing people to express what they understand to be correct or perceive to be true enables members, mentors and moderators the opportunity to correct misinformation or misunderstood information and debunk popularly held myths.

Rather than removing misguided information, allowing and enabling community members to correct misconceptions and provide balanced, respectful debate can help members better understand the complexities of their condition. Research has demonstrated the course-correcting nature of online communities, providing they are active and respectful behavior is modeled. Respectful discourse also deepens the sense of community and establishes the value of collective knowledge.

If you see a post that you think is inappropriate or contains incorrect information, please report it. Simply click "Report" at the bottom right of the message. That sends an email to me directly.

Remember, it is okay to help correct information. It is NOT okay to judge fellow members. Learn more about why and how Connect is moderated https://connect.mayoclinic.org/page/about-connect/tab/moderators/

We are grateful to active members who help keep Connect supportive, welcoming, safe, inclusive and, above all, respectful.