1. Being a Health-Literate Consumer
Lesson 3
Being a Health-Literate Consumer

2. Making Informed Choices
Health Consumer
Someone who purchases or uses health products or services
Advertising
A written or spoken media message designed to interest consumers in purchasing a product or service

3. Hidden Messages in Advertising
Bandwagon
Everyone is using it, and you should too
Rich and Famous
It will make you feel rich and famous
Free Gifts
It’s too good a deal to pass up
Great Outdoors
If it’s associated with nature, it mist be healthy
Good Times
The product will add fun to your life
Testimonial
It worked for them, so it will work for you, too

4. Evaluating Products Product Labels Comparison Shopping
Name, intended use, directions, warnings, manufacturer’s info, amount in container
Comparison Shopping
Judging the benefits of different products by comparing several factors
Cost and Quality
Features
Warranty – company’s or a store’s written agreement to repair a product or refund your money if the product doesn’t function properly
Safety
Recommendations
Evaluating Information and Services
Valid Source? Respected provider? Reputable organization?

5. Managing Consumer Problems
Lesson 4
Managing Consumer Problems

6. Resolving Consumer Problems
Check warranty
Know the store’s return policy
Read instructions
Better Business Bureau handles complaints about local merchants
Consumer Advocates
People or groups whose sole purpose is to take on regional, national, and even international consumer issues

7. Malpractice Health Fraud
Failure by a health professional to meet accepted standards
Contact organizations such as American Medical Association or a state licensing board for help
Health Fraud
The sale of worthless products or services that claim to prevent disease or cure other health problems
Also called quackery
Look for claims like:
“Secret Formula”
“Miracle Cure”
“Overnight results”
“All natural”
“Hurry, this offer expires soon”

8. Homework Read Lessons 3 and 4
Find 3 advertisements that use hidden messages to market their product
3 different hidden messages
Write about a commercial or advertisement that uses one the claims below:
“Secret Formula”
“Miracle Cure”
“Overnight results”
“All natural”
“Hurry, this offer expires soon”