March 10, 2006
Off the writing topic (sort of) for just a minute.

The quote is by Mark Twain, roughly: "There are lies, damned lies, and statistics."

Here to exercise, briefly, a pet peeve of mine. I'm a medical and health and science journalist. Get a grip, media. Here, let these speak for themselves.


Since 2003, 176 people worldwide have been infected with the avian flu. Of these 176 infected, 97 have died.

EVERY DAY 15 ADOLESCENTS DIE IN CAR CRASHES IN THE UNITED STATES.

Enough said.

Best,
Mark Terry