Information on drugs and environmental influences in pregnancy in popular magazines: a critical review.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the accuracy of information in popular magazines in Australia about drugs and environmental influences in pregnancy.

METHODS

All issues of the 14 highest-circulation popular magazines likely to contain relevant articles were prospectively surveyed between November 1991 and October 1992. The accuracy of information about drugs and environmental influences in pregnancy was assessed after reference to evidence-based scientific publications such as the Cochrane Database of Perinatal Trials.

RESULTS

Two hundred and ninety-nine statements in 162 articles were rated as accurate (77.6%), misleading (16.7%), giving a false sense of security (3%) or anxiety-provoking or inaccurate (2.7%).

CONCLUSION

An accuracy rate of 77.6% may appear acceptable. However, the media, and popular magazines in particular, are an important source of health and lifestyle information. Misinformation may induce anxiety and lead to unnecessary or inappropriate changes to medication, diet and lifestyle. Any inaccuracy should be considered unacceptable.