The media color their reports on breast cancer prevention strategies differently depending on whether the subject is screening or drugs.
Based on a review of media coverage of recent controversies about breast cancer prevention, investigators found that the media often abandons its objective tone when covering mammograms.
More specifically, the researchers found that while many news stories scrutinized the benefits and risks of the breast cancer drug tamoxifen, they appeared to encourage women to schedule mammograms, downplaying recent uncertainties over the ability of screening to reduce breast cancer deaths.
The differential attitude of the media towards different breast cancer interventions can have a strong effect. Indeed, surveys show that 96% of women say they believe women should all receive mammograms before the age of 50, despite the ongoing debate within the medical community over the use of screening in younger groups.
The media has a significant influence on the public's -- and many physicians' -- ideas/expectations about the potential benefits and harms of medical interventions.
JAMA June 19, 2002;287:3136-3142
This is just another example of how the media puts their spin on a story. If you want to learn more information so you can make a more informed decision, I suggest the links below.
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