Consumers depend on the media to learn about public health issues. Journalists taking on the responsibility of informing the public about chemicals in consumer products can better communicate information when manufacturers are required to report ingredients. A case in point is Washington's law compelling companies that sell in the state to report the presence of 'chemicals of high concern' in children's products. State health officials maintain a public online database on dozens of major companies and thousands of products. As a science journalist, I see that the quality of communication depends on the ability to conduct comprehensive research, including having access to verifiable data. Journalists also can better translate scientific findings into language the public can understand when they have the opportunity to pose questions directly to scientists, regulators and industry representatives. In writing for Environmental Health News, an online media company, I can cite links within the text supporting published studies and other documents, which also helps inform readers.

Translating scientific findings into language for the public: A journalist's job

248th National Meeting (2014)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.