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The association between alcohol and breast cancer: popular press coverage of research
F Houn1, M A Bober, E E Huerta
1National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Md 20892, USA.
Objectives:
This study was undertaken to examine popular press reports of the association between alcohol and breast cancer.
Methods:
Articles from scientific journals and stories from newspapers and magazines published from January 1, 1985, to July 1, 1992, were retrieved from six on-line databases. Lay press stories were analyzed to determine which medical articles were publicized and what information was reported.
Results:
Fifty-eight scientific articles on the relationship of alcohol and breast cancer were found, and 64 newspaper and 23 magazine stories were retrieved. The press cited 11 studies, 19% of those published during the study period. Three studies were featured in 77% of popular press stories. No scientific review articles were reported. Behavioral recommendations were given to the public in 63% of stories.
Conclusions:
The vast majority of scientific studies on alcohol and breast cancer were ignored in press reports. We encourage researchers and the popular press to give the public a broader understanding of public health issues.