The media plays a significant role in disseminatinghealth information
Example of the media's role in disseminating health information
Raise awareness and increase people's understanding of health issues such as cancer and binge drinking
The media may also affect people's perception of the risk of a disease
Example of media's impact on people's perception of the risk of a disease
Media coverage of HIV/AIDS has contributed to heighten knowledge and awareness in comparison to other sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia
The media can also shape attitudes and values about “what good health looks like” misleading messages can often lead to misconceptions or distorted perceptions of health
Example of the media shaping attitudes and values
Media portrayal of ‘slim’ females and ‘athletic’ males has significant effect on people's assessment of their own health
