Media essential for public health and harm reduction: Insights from the 3rd Edition of the Harm Reduction Exchange
The presentation concluded with a list of references for further exploration of the discussed topics.
Nairobi, Kenya -The 3rd Edition of the Harm Reduction Exchange in Nairobi, Kenya, brought to light the significant role of media in public health and harm reduction from October 18–19, 2023, writes Winston Mwale.
Chimwemwe Ngoma, who is affiliated with Knowledge Action Change, delivered a presentation titled "The Media as Promoters of Public Health and Harm Reduction."
Ngoma's presentation emphasized the pivotal role of media in disseminating health information, stating that it remains a primary source of health-related knowledge, a fact supported by various scholars.
The profound impact of media on health information dissemination was a central theme, with a focus on its role in shaping health behaviours, rapidly spreading health information, and influencing public policy and health regulations.
Media's critical role in health promotion was underscored, especially in the context of harm reduction.
The presentation explored how the media has contributed to harm reduction in various areas. Examples included the promotion of safe sex practices, such as condom use and PrEP in the fight against HIV and AIDS, influencing road traffic safety regulations, advocating for environmental conservation, and playing a pivotal role in tobacco control, particularly in the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC).
The presentation included a case study on Sweden's successful snus use and low smoking prevalence, demonstrating how balanced reporting and evidence-based communication can lead to reduced smoking rates and improved public health.
However, Ngoma also raised concerns about the potential for misinformation through the media.
The dissemination of conflicting or manipulated information was identified as a significant threat to public health, particularly with new technologies and emerging health issues.
Examples included conflicting information on the safety of electronic cigarettes and the early misinformation during the EVALI outbreak in the United States.
To address these challenges, Ngoma proposed a three-pronged approach: balanced reporting, incorporating views from all relevant stakeholders, evidence-based communication, and ethical reporting.
This approach was seen as crucial in mitigating misinformation and prejudice in health-related media content.
The presentation concluded with a list of references for further exploration of the discussed topics.
Ngoma's thought-provoking presentation emphasised the vital role of media in shaping public health, highlighting both its potential benefits and the necessity for responsible reporting and communication.