News & Reports 2/19/10

man holding newspaper

The 2010 Olympics are in full swing.  This week, we take a look at media attention beyond the medal count and explore the influence of the Winter Games.

     • Winter Olympics pique interest in speed skating (Source:  Gazette.net) Inspired by the likes of Apolo Ohno, Maryland teens discover their own need for speed.


     • The popularity of snowboarding (Source:  WHEC.com) Since becoming an Olympic event in 1998, snowboarding has experienced a 300% increase in participation across the U.S.


     • NBC:  Ads during Olympics beat those on regular TV (Source:  Advertising Age)  Consumer research suggests that viewers are more likely to follow-up on advertisements viewed during the Olympic games, as compared to similar ads during other programming.

 

How can the public health community leverage the positive influence of the Olympic Games?  Share your ideas for a proactive plan for 2012!