Hollywood and Healthcare: Navigating the Dual Impact of Movies on Public Health.

INTRODUCTION

Synonymous with the American film industry, Hollywood wields considerable influence on public health through its vast global reach and engaging media. This paper explores Hollywood's role and its impacts on public health, primarily driven by its portrayal of healthcare services, illnesses, and related beliefs and provides recommendations to improve "education entertainment" for the future.

METHODS

PubMed was searched using keywords such as hollywood, healthcare, medical dramas, health education, smoking, suicide, and many more. Relevant literature up to June 2024 has been examined and summarized, which consisted of 37 articles with data from various clinical trials, meta-analyses, and literature reviews.

DISCUSSION

Medical dramas like "Grey's Anatomy" and "E.R." have educated audiences on medical knowledge, healthcare structures, and inspired healthcare career aspirations. By depicting the realities of medical practice, these shows have enhanced public support for healthcare reforms. Similarly, films like "Contagion" have fostered awareness and empathy by positively portraying healthcare professionals during crises. However, Hollywood's glamorization of certain lifestyles has also contributed to body dissatisfaction and unhealthy behaviors, with increased cosmetic procedure rates and eating disorders linked to media portrayals. Furthermore, the depiction of smoking and vaping, as well as the sensationalized portrayal of suicides, has been shown to elevate risky behaviors and suicide rates among impressionable viewers.

CONCLUSIONS

Hollywood's impact on healthcare is thus dual-faceted, necessitating responsible media practices and preventive measures to mitigate adverse outcomes while leveraging its potential for public health education.