NCRI 2016 | Why the scientific community should be concerned with the accuracy of cancer coverage in the media

Freelance science writer and broadcaster, Kat Arney, PhD discusses the impact of media coverage on public behavior and funding decisions. She stresses the importance of working to portray a realistic and accurate picture of cancer to the public. Her research has shown the impact of media coverage on how common the public thinks different cancer types are, and what cancer risks are. An example of this is the impact of celebrities such as Kylie Minogue and Jane Goodall, who’s diagnosis increased the number of people screening for cancer. Dr Arney also explains that media coverage influences funding decisions. Recorded at the 2016 National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Annual Conference, held in Liverpool, UK.