According to a study, television and magazine advertisements from cancer centers often tug at peoples heartstrings, but rarely provide information needed to make a decision about cancer treatment.

The report, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine and funded by the National Institute of Health, examined 409 unique TV and magazine advertisements from top media markets.

With more than 1.6 million new cancer cases diagnosed each year, the direct-to-consumer ads pushing to various cancer centers across the country, and specific cancer treatments, are increasing.

A systematic content analysis of these ads found that the content is sharply directed at a would-be patients heartstrings:

  • 85 percent made emotional appeals to consumers
  • 61 percent used language about hope, extension of life, or a cure
  • 52 percent touted innovative, or advanced technology or treatments
  • 30 percent evoked fear by mentioned death, fear, or loss

Nearly half of the advertisements included patient testimonials, but only 15 percent included a disclaimer about patient outcome. No advertisements described the outcomes a typical patient may experience. Failure to disclose this information is a violation of a Federal Trade Commission mandate, the report notes.

Noticeably missing from most of the TV and magazine ads is information about the risks, scientific-supported benefits and cost:

  • 2 percent disclosed the risks of the cancer treatment
  • 5 percent mentioned cost of treatment

While the report didnt look at how the ads effect patients’ decision for care, the researchers note that emotion-based advertisement is a powerful means of persuasion and potentially harmful to the consumer.

Unnecessary tests or treatments not only expose patients to avoidable risks, but could also lead to distress if the treatment does not work.

Researchers say further studies are needed to determine if misleading cancer center advertising on TV and in magazines is contributing to the rapidly escalating cost of cancer care in the United States.

Source: CNN Health

Be a part of Elets Collaborative Initiatives. Join Us for Upcoming Events and explore business opportunities. Like us on Facebook , connect with us on LinkedIn and follow us on Twitter , Instagram.

Related Case Studies


whatsapp--v1