what they said (Hover the mouse cursor over underlined words for more info)

Aspirin may become the newest tool in the battle against osteoporosis, suggests new research.

Researchers at the University of Southern California School of Dentistry tested the effects of Aspirin on mice, and found it prevented improper bone resorption - the process by which bone turns over and releases minerals. It also prevented the death of bone-forming stem cells.

In osteoporosis, bone turns over more than it is rebuilt, leading to brittle, easily fractured bones...

The original article can be found at: http://www.cbc.ca/health/story/2008/07/09/aspirin-osteoporosis.html?ref=rss

how did it rate? (more information)

what we said (Hover the mouse cursor over underlined words for more info)

It's not common practice that Media Doctor Canada reviews news articles that cover animal-based research (in this case, the use of aspirin to prevent osteoporosis in mice). However, we were taken aback by the misleading title and felt this article warranted a critical review.

Overall, this news article should be more explicit that there is no evidence to show that aspirin has any effect on humans in treating osteoporosis. As it stands, the article reads as though it is promoting the use of aspirin for those with osteoporosis. While this promotion may attract readers, it also threatens the credibility of the reporter and news agency. Greater caution should be taken in covering drugs and treatments, no matter if the drug is prescription or over the counter.

public forum

voice your opinion in the forum

• All comments and feedback submitted to Media Doctor are subject to editorial approval before being made viewable by the public. It may take up to a week for your comments to be approved. Additionally, no response will be given to questions posed in public comments. Media Doctor does not provide medical advice, or answers to medical questions posed by the public.
• If you provide your email address it will not be displayed to the general public.
• Comments may be edited by Media Doctor to remove defamatory or sensitive statements, and brand names.
• Required fields are marked with an asterisk (*).