Ben Goldacre (29 October) suggests the BBC "over-interpreted" data in a story on our news website about regional differences in death rates from bowel cancer. The BBC stands by this report as an accurate representation of the figures, which were provided by the reputable charity Beating Bowel Cancer. Dr Goldacre suggests the difference between the best- and worst-performing authorities falls within a range that could be expected through chance. But this does not change the fact that there is a threefold difference between the best and worst local authorities. In addition, the bulk of the piece is a responsible warning to the public to be alert to the dangers of what can be a killer disease. I also feel is it unfair for Dr Goldacre to single out the BBC for criticism. The same research was reported widely elsewhere across the web, including the Guardian website.

Gary Smith

UK news editor, BBC News

Topics