Public Health Nutrition
- Public Health Nutrition / Volume 11 / Issue 11 / November 2008, pp 1124-1131
- Copyright © The Authors 2008
- DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S1368980007001565 (About DOI), Published online: 21 January 2008
Research Paper
Fit for public consumption? An exploratory study of the reporting of nutrition research in UK tabloids with regard to its accuracy, and a preliminary investigation of public attitudes towards it
Andrea J Basua1 c1 and Elaine Hogarda1
a1 School of Health and Social Care, University College Chester, Parkgate Road, Chester CH1 4BJ, UK
Abstract
Objective To explore the quality (accuracy, balance, practical context) of tabloid articles reporting on nutrition research, and public attitudes towards it.
Design A qualitative multi-method study consisting of a systematic analysis of tabloid articles and a series of focus groups with members of the public.
Setting Tabloid newspapers (nationwide). Focus groups were conducted at a UK university.
Subjects All UK tabloid newspapers were collated for a full calendar month. Members of the local Women’s Institute and non-teaching staff within the University College Chester were recruited as focus group participants.
Results Twenty-nine tabloid articles were included. A standardised TAT (Tabloid Analysis Tool) was used a total of thirty-nine times (once for each research study cited). Twenty-six failed to accurately report research results, thirty-six failed to mention significant research limitations, and only five quoted a third-party expert source. Two focus groups, each with eight participants, were conducted. Attitudes expressed were largely negative, highlighting elements of confusion and scepticism. Articles were more likely to be disregarded than acted upon, although some value was attached to newspapers providing nutrition information.
Conclusions Tabloid reporting on nutrition research is not sufficiently accurate, balanced or contextualised, and public attitudes towards the reporting are not wholly favourable. Guidance for journalists via registered dietitians and a strengthening of present links could serve to utilise this form of mass media more effectively.
(Received February 23 2007)
(Accepted October 24 2007)
Keywords
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