Medical Reality TV Shows and Education

By Michael (Age 13.5, South Island School)

Editor's note: Read a response from a student who points out the downsides of medical reality TV shows. 

Cancer, as we all know, is one of the deadliest diseases known to man. It is horrifying and devastating to many people. Most of these cancer victims and their family members have emotional and physical problems while dealing with cancer. Therefore, cancer reality shows for television are being developed. It affects and follows the lives of cancer patients at different stages of cancer. During some point in the show, the patient will have to undergo surgery, and some are predicted to die as well, unfortunately.

Photo via Wikimedia Commons

Being the television executive in charge of the programs in the local network, I think that this reality television show is perfect for the public audience. My main reason is because the public will be able to put themselves into the shoes of the cancer patients, to understand how they live their lives and what it's like to go through the pain and pressure. It would also be an excellent source of knowledge for young doctors or students who want to be surgeons or doctors. These reality shows can help the viewers/audience take steps to prevent cancer and stay healthy.

On the other hand, if the doctors were to be filmed while in the process of surgery, it would bring a lot of pressure and distraction. Different factors of media and film disadvantages are lighting, drama, camera angles, and other theatrical matters. These could possibly lead to mistakes made by the doctor, risking the lives of the patients. The patients basically would be guinea pigs whose lives are being played with for television purposes. Unless the cast members, doctors, cameramen and the media consider these factors, this reality show would not be successful.

In conclusion, I think that this reality show is completely relevant to the public and can allow the public to understand more about this disease and bring knowledge to young students, doctors, and scientists. Not only would it help the media and television society, it would also provide a wider opportunity for researching the cure for cancer. This show might be able to help us improve the world and make it a better place.