Questions and Answers
The American Cancer Society and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society are examples of ______ groups.
patient advocacy
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics was formerly known as the American ______ Association.
Dietetic
Many patient advocacy organizations often promote the interests of ______ companies over patient needs.
pharmaceutical
The MS Society helps people affected by MS by funding research and providing ______ and services.
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Professional medical societies focus on a specific medical ______ rather than individual diseases.
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Study Notes
Patient Advocacy and Fundraising Groups
- Organizations like the American Cancer Society (ACS) and National Multiple Sclerosis Society (MS Society) work towards disease eradication and promoting health practices.
- ACS raises money and awareness, funding research and education to combat serious diseases.
- MS Society's mission focuses on funding research, advocacy, education, and support for people with multiple sclerosis and their families.
Professional Organizations
- American Society for Nutrition (ASN) and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) (formerly the American Dietetic Association) provide education and networking for members.
- AND's commitment is to improve national health and advance dietetics through research and advocacy.
- These organizations can reinforce existing systems favoring reductionist research, often sidelining nutritional approaches.
Concerns about Industry Influence
- Many organizations may prioritize relationships with pharmaceutical companies and the food industry over patient advocacy.
- These groups may obscure their true motives behind a facade of selfless service, risking public trust.
- Lobbying and financial dependence on corporate donors can shift focus from scientific truths to industry-friendly narratives.
Gatekeeping and Power Dynamics
- Advocacy groups and professional societies often control who is considered a legitimate practitioner versus a "quack."
- Such gatekeeping stifles innovation and alternative approaches to treatment and research.
- The prevalent reductionist paradigm dominates thinking within these organizations, often disregarding holistic views.
Funding and Independence
- Many organizations are financially supported by corporate donations, which influences their policies and messaging.
- Partnerships with corporations allow nonprofits to conduct initiatives they otherwise couldn't afford.
- A revolving door exists between nonprofit leadership roles and industry positions, incentivizing alignment with corporate interests.
Case Study: American Cancer Society (ACS)
- ACS aims to eradicate cancer globally, focusing on research funding, patient education, and public mobilization.
- The organization has notably reduced smoking rates through campaigns against tobacco companies, enhancing public health perceptions about tobacco use.
- Despite its positive contributions, ACS is viewed as an obstacle in reducing cancer rates due to its ties and alignment with industry interests.
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Description
This quiz explores the crucial roles of patient advocacy and fundraising groups in promoting health and disease awareness. It highlights organizations like the American Cancer Society and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, which focus on raising funds and awareness for serious health issues. Test your knowledge about these selfless societies and their impact on healthcare.
