In your view, is the influence of ‘junk science’ on public knowledge and public policy a growing problem?
In August, JADA unveiled a new feature called "Practical Science." Produced in cooperation with the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs, this new feature focuses on issues and concerns that confront dentists each day, such as anesthetics, analgesics and pain control; diagnosis and management of recurrent herpes simplex infections; and fluorosis.
One goal in developing this feature is to combat "junk science"—erroneous interpretations of scientific findings and misunderstandings of the scientific method.
When asked if, in their views, the influence of junk science on public knowledge and public policy is a growing problem, 91 percent of respondents to July JADA’s Question of the Month said yes.
"Especially concerning amalgam, X-rays and bacteria in waterlines," said one.
"Just look at the growth rate of herbal medicine," said another.
Several respondents expressed concern about the public’s relationship with junk science. "People are influenced by media and do not gather enough background information," said one.
"They read so much of this that they believe it in spite of the facts," said another reader. "They think it is the gospel truth."
Other respondents said they see the problem as being generated by the media. "The media tend to give too much credibility to junk science," said one. "They do not present a balanced approach with both sides represented."
"It is the nature of journalism to emphasize the sensation at the expense of accuracy," said another. "And we are bombarded more and more with journalistic forays into science," said a third.
Some readers said that it is dentistry’s responsibility to provide patients with accurate information. "We must return to evidence-based science and chart our course from there," said one. "We must promote proven practices and reveal poor research and science for what it is."
Dr. Daniel M. Meyer, associate executive director, ADA Division of Science, said the Practical Science feature is intended to provide the most up-to-date scientifically based information to dentists about patient care.
"To improve patient care and promote the latest advances in the art and science of dentistry, experts in dentistry discuss the scientific aspects of important clinical issues," Dr. Meyer said. "These issues are addressed in a clear, concise, scientifically supportable and clinically meaningful way. The feature is designed to give practitioners the useful and practical tools they need to provide scientifically-sound state-of-the-art oral health care."
Six percent of respondents to the Question of the Month answered they did not know, and 3 percent answered no.
