[cneurotic]

Dubious evidence in medical studies is a big problem.

But I'd argue that it's only the core of the issue. The second layer out — and I think the more influential layer — is the JOURNALISM surrounding these medical studies.

Even if the underlying science is sound, a lot of outlets and reporters routinely (and sometimes willfully) get the facts wrong.

I attended a talk with Retraction Watch's Ivan Oransky, where he spelled out how easy it is for well-intentioned journalists to exaggerate, over-generalize, or misunderstand what a study says. It was eye-opening. And a little frightening.