Public Health Matters: The Difference Between Misinformation and Disinformation, and How Information Can Inform Evidence-Based Decisions

Season 2, Episode 37,   Sep 19, 01:00 PM

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In this episode, host Dr. Christina Madison interviews Jessica Steier, DrPH, PMP, CEO of Vital Statistics Consulting, and the founder and CEO of Unbiased Science, on her journey in public health and entrepreneurship. In a period of misinformation and disinformation, both Madison and Steier discuss the importance of creating informed, evidence-based decisions within health care.

Key Takeaways:
  1. Data-Based and Evidence-Informed Decisions: Using her podcast, Unbiased Science, Dr. Jessica Steier explains that she doesn’t intend to tell people what scientific opinions to have. Instead, she encourages listeners to use data and factual information to create their own evidence-based decisions to avoid falling for misinformation and disinformation.
  2. Misinformation Versus Disinformation: Dr. Steier explains that the difference in these terms revolves around intent. Misinformation refers to the unintentional spreading of inaccurate information, whereas disinformation is the intentional spread of false information. Dr. Steier also highlights a study conducted by the Center for Countering Digital Hate which found 12 people were responsible for the bulk of disinformation surrounding vaccines.
  3. The Benefits of Social Media: Although social media has been harmful in spreading misinformation and disinformation, Dr. Steier and Dr. Christina Madison discuss how it has been beneficial in emphasizing previously underdiscussed topics. As an example, they note the pain that women experience during IUD insertion, and how the mass discussion of that topic has encouraged health care practices to begin offering solutions and additional education.
You can learn more about Unbiased Science podcast and Vital Statistics Consulting, and follow them on social media:
 Connect with Jessica Steier on LinkedIn!

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