Michael S. Bowen, MPH, Division of Health Studies\Health Investigations Branch, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, 1600 Clifton Road NE, MS: E-31, atlanta, GA 30333, (404) 498-1305, msb4@cdc.gov and Alden Henderson, PhD, Health Investigations Branch, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, 1600 Clifton Rd, N.E., Atlanta, GA 30333.

Media reports of public health phenomena can differ greatly from the public health reality. Excerpts of articles reported in local newspapers, Time Magazine, the New York Times, and other publications will be presented in contrast to public health data to demonstrate that long standing community and public perceptions of health issues can be far off the mark without effective analysis and timely communication of data by public health entities. In this Superfund Site example, there were numerous consequences and important lessons to be learned. The need for new and proactive approaches to public health data analysis and dissemination is emphasized.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize the advantages of conducting data analysis that can be referenced with state or national statistics
• Understand the importance of timely analysis and communication of public health data
• Know when public health data systems do not have the technical ability to meet situational needs and what to do to correct

Keywords: Lead, Communication

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.