The Media is Crucial in the Global Fight for Health

This editorial explores the role the media can play in the global fight against disease by opening up channels of communication between researchers, policymakers, and the general public.

First, by providing accurate information about new research, the media can highlight successful results for policymakers and endorse investment in medical research. Also, as author David Dickson argues, where a developing country has carried out the work, reporting positive outcomes can also strengthen demands for further capacity building.

In addition, Dickson contends that the media can spark public debates by scrutinising why governments and international agencies fail to get relevant research carried out and findings put into practice. By acting as a watchdog and flagging poor performance, the media can generate public pressure on politicians to put things right.

To effectively carry out these functions, Dickson stresses, journalists need professional training that emphasises the specific skills needed to report accurately about health research. For example, reporters need to understand the peer review process so that they can appreciate why some treatments are considered more effective than others. Familiarity with informed consent procedures in clinical trials is also important, in Dickson's assessment.

Biomedical researchers have a role to play in building this open communication culture, too. Dickson indicates that they must also recognise that properly trained journalists can help them get research into practice. He asks them to help engage the public in healthcare debates by ensuring total transparency when applying research to health. "[T]he media can help provide just that."