Morgan Gallagher <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
>I know this might seem like a really dumb question... but don't you have
>_any_ regulatory authority for media content in the USA?
>
>Surely there must be some regulation on medical/health standards in
>publications, somewhere?

Not that I'm aware of. It's more self-imposed. Some publications 
strive to be accurate---a reputation for well-written and accurate 
information still counts. Other publications . . . well, if people 
are harmed by what's written, they have recourse through the courts.

I suspect lawsuits don't go very far though, because publications 
often include some statement or another to the effect: "This 
article/publication does not constitute or substitute for medical 
advice. You should see your doctor for any medical concerns or 
questions." It's the publications' escape clause---they told the 
reader not to rely on their advice and, oh, silly reader went and did 
it anyway! So, if something bad happens, well, it's the reader's fault.

However, don't show a nipple on TV. That is when the regulatory 
hounds of Hell will be unleashed.

regards,
Julia

Julia R. Barrett
Freelance Science Writer & Editor
Madison, Wisconsin 

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