Race: The X Factor

A discussion of how journalists can integrate racial disparities in healthcare into their overall coverage.

Tips for coverage:
* The media should take a stronger interest in reporting on instances of environmental racism.
* There should be a better balance of coverage -- good, uplifting stories in addition to stories that bring sadness.
* Reporting should be done in a factual, "bridging" way, not in a way that is racially charged.
* In reporting on studies, the media should not distort the findings in order to insert a racial element. If, for instance, the study did not explore racial differences, the reporters should not go beyond the actual contents and suggest that there are differences. To do so is to lose the respect of researchers and clinicians -- the medical experts who can offer invaluable help in interpreting the results.
* Just as important, reporters should remember that people drive the story. In reporting on studies, ask who are the participants? What is the study's impact on healthcare providers, the minority community and hospitals?

Stories the media are missing:
* Success stories -- "Heroes" who solve or address community problems.
* Hard-edged look at pharmaceutical companies that advertise so-called "lifestyle drugs" on television.
* HIV in women.
* The toll of diabetes on minorities.