title: Controversial Messages on Cancer.
abstract: A direct connection between certain lifestyle factors and an increased risk of cancer has already been established. Despite well-documented associations, controversial messages on causes of cancer often appear without taking into consideration their impact on the general population. While mainstream coverage of cancer research is clearly welcome, consideration must be given to the risk of transmitting provocative messages with serious negative consequences for cancer research and public health. We must avoid becoming a breeding ground for the misinterpretation of scientific information. Polemical results can stimulate scientific research and progress, but controversial messages encourage confusion and impotence in an increasingly disoriented population. The correct communication of health messages is at least as important as research on risk factors.
authors: University of Granada, Granada, Spain E-mail : marieta@ugr.es.
authors: Vicente
authors: V
authors: Mustieles
authors: Nicolas
authors: N
authors: Olea
authors: Maria Jose
authors: MJ
authors: Sanchez
authors: Mariana F
authors: MF
authors: Fernandez
mesh_terms: D003142:Communication; D015438:Health Behavior; D006266:Health Education; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D033181:Information Dissemination; D008019:Life Style; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012307:Risk Factors