Marketing
The Impact of Media and Advertising on Health Choices
Marketing has a profound impact on public health, shaping consumer behaviors, perceptions, and lifestyle choices. From the promotion of unhealthy foods to misleading pharmaceutical advertising, corporations use targeted strategies to influence decisions that have long-term health consequences. Vulnerable populations—such as children, low-income communities, and communities of color—are often disproportionately exposed to harmful marketing tactics.
Unchecked marketing can mislead the public about health risks, normalizing behaviors that contribute to chronic disease, addiction, and poor mental health. Addressing the role of advertising in health means ensuring greater transparency, stronger regulations, and responsible media practices.
Why it Matters
The products we consume—and the way they are marketed—shape long-term health outcomes. Aggressive marketing of processed foods, alcohol, and tobacco has contributed to preventable health crises like obesity, addiction, and heart disease. Additionally, pharmaceutical advertising often encourages unnecessary medication use, increasing healthcare costs and potential side effects.
Regulating deceptive marketing practices and promoting evidence-based public health messaging is essential to counteract harmful corporate influence. Policies that limit targeted junk food advertising, regulate misleading health claims, and promote media literacy can help protect consumers and create healthier communities.
Key Determinants of Health
Solving the challenges in healthcare
starts with identifying their cause.
Medical & Rx Advertising
The Impact of Marketing on Health Choices
Pharmaceutical and medical advertising influence consumer decisions, sometimes leading to over-medication or unnecessary procedures. Regulations and transparency are necessary to ensure ethical marketing that prioritizes public health over corporate profits.
Media Personalities
The Power of Influence on Health Perceptions
Celebrities and influencers shape public health discourse, sometimes spreading misinformation or endorsing harmful products. Responsible media representation and health literacy education are crucial for counteracting misleading health claims.
Related Resources
Supplements
Navigating the Unregulated World of Health Products
The supplement industry is largely unregulated, leading to misleading health claims and potential safety risks. Consumers need better education on evidence-based health practices and stronger regulations to ensure product safety and efficacy.
Celebrities
How Public Figures Shape Health Trends
Celebrities can promote both positive and harmful health behaviors. While some raise awareness for important health causes, others contribute to misinformation or unrealistic health expectations. Media literacy and responsible endorsements play a role in public health.
Misinformation
The Dangers of False Health Narratives
Misinformation spreads rapidly through social media and unreliable sources, leading to vaccine hesitancy, harmful self-treatment, and distrust in medical professionals. Combating misinformation with accurate, science-backed health communication is vital for public well-being.
Related Resources
Peer Pressure
Social Influences on Health Decisions
Peers play a significant role in shaping behaviors related to diet, substance use, and mental health. Negative peer pressure can contribute to risky behaviors, while positive peer environments encourage healthy choices. Social support programs help guide better decision-making.
Social Media
Digital Influence on Health Behaviors
Social media shapes public perception of health, often promoting unrealistic beauty standards, unproven health treatments, and mental health challenges. Ensuring responsible content moderation and digital literacy education is key to reducing harm.
Related Resources
See our Resource Library.
Access Our Resources
Addressing determinants of health early is the key to better outcomes later in life.
Our research and policy briefs provide in-depth analysis of Oregon’s healthcare challenges and evidence-based solutions. Download our latest publications to learn more about specific issues and our recommended policy solutions.
