How to Tell Better Stories With Public Health Data

How to Tell Better Stories With Public Health Data

Blog Article

How to Tell Better Stories With Public Health Data

Public health data might sound a bit dry at first—but it doesn’t have to be. Behind the graphs and numbers are important stories about people’s health and, often, the quality of their lives. If we can tell those stories clearly and in ways people care about, we can make a bigger impact. Whether you're writing a report, giving a talk, or posting on social media, clear storytelling makes your data more useful and easier to remember. And no, you don’t need to go through a painful process like a routecanal to learn how!

Start by thinking of the people behind the numbers. Are you talking about asthma rates in children? Think about what that means for a kid who can’t play at recess or has to miss school often. Language like this helps people connect with the data, because it's showing what’s really going on in everyday life.

Next, keep things simple. It’s easy to get caught up in percentages, trends, and spreadsheets. But everyday folks don’t talk like that. Instead of saying “there was an increase of 23% in diabetes cases from 2010 to 2020,” you might say, “diabetes is becoming more common, with nearly one in four people today affected compared to just one in five ten years ago.” Clear, easy to picture, and more meaningful.

Use visuals, but only if they help. A good chart or map can make data click right away, but too many lines or colors can confuse people. Add short explanations or even captions to tell people what they’re looking at and why it matters.

Also, answer the “so what?” People want to know why they should care. Is this health issue rising in their community? Does it cost them money or affect kids in local schools? Always try to connect the dots between data and everyday life.

Finally, keep checking in with your audience. Ask someone who doesn’t work in public health if your story makes sense. If they don’t get it, rethink how you’re explaining things.

Good public health storytelling doesn't need fancy words or complex charts. Be human, be clear, and always remember who you’re talking to. When you do that, your data can truly make a difference.