I believed that the central purpose of journalism is to provide the general population with the accurate and reliable information that they need to function in a free society. Not true, in these changed times we might be forgiven that the central purpose of ‘medical science’ in journalism is to provide an entertaining 'snippet' or sound bite for what has become little more than another arm of the entertainment industry that can be manipulated to [proliferate fake news and misinformation.
In the UK, national newspapers regularly tout stories about miracle cures long before relevant studies required for proof of concept have been completed [1]. Even the BBC's Radio 4 regularly broadcasts health-related articles that might best be called '...sometime in the next 5 to 10 years'. Every month we see reports about promising research, medical breakthroughs and potential wonder drugs. The internet is home to dubious adverts and chat-room conversations testifying to 'incredible' benefits. To scientists and healthcare providers this can cause frustration but for those with long-term medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease they offer the hope of finding a cure or a treatment that promises more than their current medicines. Evidence is often sparse and celebrity endorsement can be perceived as a substitute for years of scientific research. Even when the science is good, the route to progress is not straightforward. A lot of research that looks promising in the early stages comes to a dead end. Promising 'breakthroughs' in the lab take significant investment and many years of research to be translated into therapies that are both effective and safe. Clinical trials may reveal that a promising drug has an unacceptable side-effect profile, but this process is not communicated effectively to the public.
It is rare for a celebrity to shy away from declaring the benefit of dubious ideas about health and science. A review of the news for 2012 suggests that last year was no exception. In February we were told how 'X Factor' judge Simon Cowell holds back the years by taking blasts from a can of oxygen he carries with him at all times (Daily Telegraph). We were also told how other celebrities used dried placenta pills and topical coffee granules to counter various conditions. Abuse is not reserved for medical science. In August we learned from Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympic athlete of all time, that Olympic swimmers occasionally relieve themselves in the pool and that it is fine to do so because "chlorine kills it" [2].
Seriously though, if you are seeking relief from any sense of frustration you could do no better than visit the website for Sense About Science, a charity dedicated to helping people make sense of science and understand the importance of evidence [3]. Having charted the rise and fall of celebrity fads, endorsements and claims about science they asked scientists to review a selection of the dubious claims in 2012. In their report, specialists put people right on sports psychology, energy flow and dietary supplements. Sense About Science's managing director Tracey Brown is quoted as saying "Celebrity comments travel far and fast, so it's important that they talk sense". She goes on to say "The implausible and frankly dangerous claims about how to avoid cancer, improve skin or lose weight are becoming ever more ridiculous. And unfortunately, they have a much higher profile than the research and evidence." This is only one of many freely downloadable highly topical articles provided on the SAS website.
To encourage more vigilance among celebrity pseudo-scientists in the future, SAS provides a checklist of claims it suggests should be avoided:
References
The proceedings of the Association for Human Pharmacology in the Pharmaceutical Industry (AHPPI)
Frights create a happy Halloween by providing the thrill of fear in a controlled and safe environment, turning what.
We recently encouraged writers (of all kinds) in our recent Insider’s Insight to experiment with large language.
Our team are exploring different and novel ways for young people to enter the pharmaceutical industry.
Paraskevidekatriaphobia is a phobia of Friday the 13th. Yes, they actually gave it a name.
Have you seen our latest Insider's Insight on Case Reports? Once a staple of medical journals,
The largest pharmaceutical companies not surprisingly rely on the largest contract research organizations
I have never been great at conferences. People don’t believe me but I am painfully shy and far too worried about what.
Scientific knowledge should be accessible to all and if you are those communicating science
Since 2013 we have been sharing our understanding on key issues with friends and clients via our Insider’s Insights.
When I was younger, the opening lines of the Beatle’s seminal ‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’ resonated.
ive years ago I was lucky enough to be involved in a project that resulted in publications
Finding the best vehicle in which to publish your research findings is a perennial challenge.
Experience at Niche has taught us that clinical study protocols are born in the white-hot fire
In the past, Halloween has meant the end of the crop and the start of the dark, cold winter.
We all need heroes - people who can champion our cause - helping the world to understand our rationale
Congratulations class of 2024. That was all I needed to hear when I stood in your shoes almost 40 years ago. 40 years
Get our latest news and publications
Sign up to our news letterResources
Social
Contact us
Address
Niche Science & Technology
Unit 26 Falstaff House
Bardolph Road
Richmond TW9 2LH
United Kingdom
