Medical Information and Misinformation – The Role of Epidemiology
The Cutter Lectures on Preventive Medicine
The 9th Symposium
Join us as three preeminent speakers address topics on the intersection of health, misinformation, and epidemiology adapting to a rapidly changing information landscape.
- Stefanie Friedhoff will speak on Defending the Science, Losing the Narrative: A Path Forward for Health Promotion in Chaotic Information Ecosystems.
Abstract: At the heart of the information crisis that is eroding advances in health around the world lies a difficult truth: societies are not able to meet the information needs of people and communities amidst rapidly changing, increasingly weaponized information spaces. This talk will illuminate how an overfocus on atoms of misinformation can stand in the way of addressing broader narratives, and miss drivers of vulnerability to misleading information such as outdated communications practices, information inequities, polarization, and negative experiences with the healthcare system. Introducing the lens of information as a social determinant of health, Friedhoff will discuss how information can both directly and indirectly impact health outcomes. Charting a path forward, she will share emerging insights from research and practice on how public health and medicine can more effectively engage diverse publics in health promotion in a changed information landscape. - Alfredo Morabia will speak on Epidemiology at a Crossroads: History, Misinformation, and the Defense of Public Health.
Abstract: Throughout history, epidemiology has stood at the crossroads of science and political pressure, providing critical public health insights despite efforts to suppress inconvenient truths. From Cold War-era studies on radiation exposure to the politically charged investigations of the AIDS crisis, epidemiologists have navigated resistance from powerful institutions. Today, political interventions once again challenge the field’s ability to inform public health policy. This talk explores historical parallels and key differences between past and present contexts, highlighting the enduring tension between truth and misinformation, and what history teaches us about defending public health. - Issa Dahabreh will speak on TBA.
Produced by the Department of Epidemiology with co-sponsors the Department of Biostatistics and Center for Health Communications.
This hybrid event offers livestream and in-person viewing options (with limited in-person seating). Seats in the main auditorium are first come, first served. There is additional seating in the overflow room. There will also be a recording of the event for those who cannot attend.
Stay for the reception 5:00-6:00PM in Sebastian’s Cafe.
Open to the public.
Speakers will share their own perspectives; they do not speak for Harvard.
