Print Media Coverage of Cervical Cancer A Content Analysis of Daily Graphic and Daily Guide Newpapers

Abstract

Research has shown that dissemination of health information by print media in particular is critical in shaping public beliefs and possibly behaviour. By extension, this means that depending on how the media are used, they can be hugely influential in changing health behaviours and improving health. This study conducted a quantitative content analysis of the Daily Graphic and Daily Guide newspapers from 2013 to 2016 to examine the dominant frames used in the coverage of cervical cancer in the Ghanaian print media. The study also examined the differences and similarities in the dominant frames that emerged, the sources of the stories as well as the frequency of coverage on cervical cancer. After an analysis of 52 stories, the study found that the dominant frames in the coverage of cervical cancer were action and consequences frames with the action frame emerging as the dominant frame for both the Daily Graphic and Daily Guide newspapers. The results also showed that there were not that much differences in the dominant frames used in the coverage of cervical cancer by both newspapers. The study further revealed that majority of the stories were episodic in nature and the main sources of stories on cervical cancer coverage were government scientist/officials and agencies and patient and advocacy organizations and NGOs for both newspapers. Finally, the analysis showed that the information conveyed in the articles was incomplete and devoid of the detailed information needed in covering such a health issue. The study recommends that a conscious effort be made to report health news in frames that place import on depth and detail