Gender-specific cancers, gender-specific reporters? Twenty-four years of network TV coverage

This research investigated the role of reporter gender in reporting about sensitive gender specific cancers. On ABC, CBS, and NBC national newscasts from 1972 through 1995, mat reporters presented 75 percent of all gender-specific cancer stories, delivered more stories over time, and delivered 96 percent of male-cancer stories and 72 percent of female-cancer stories. Female reporters delivered fewer female-cancer stories over rime and never broke the sensitivity barrier regarding male-specific cancers. Male reporters delivered cancer as a science story, focused on treatment and therapy, and mentioned more medical research,journals, and organizations. Female reporters were more likely to report on health policy or famous women with cancer.