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Health magazines and Web sites don't draw much teen interest, so you've got to take your health messages to their regular haunts. As long as you don't contribute to the
mountain of pitches Seventeen magazine gets about eating disorders, the editors are eager to consider your teen-focused health information. The magazine, with a circulation
of 2.4 million, is a staple among teenage girls who look to it for lifestyle advice. While the content doesn't cover health issues that are too depressing like fatal forms of
cancer, it does delve into edgy topics like safe sex, domestic abuse and youth violence.
Throughout the year the issue, for example, of sexual health will get major ink and online attention. The Kaiser Family Foundation partnered with Seventeen to provide
targeted information about sexually transmitted diseases and sponsor periodical surveys on teen attitudes about sex. The April issue features the first of a series of special
reports on the topic. And in June, the Web site will launch a monthly online column offering relationship/safe-sex advice. For story ideas that require more comprehensive coverage
than can be accommodated in the magazine, pitch the Web site. It's being revamped but soon it will provide additional health information and original content.
Health Coverage
Health features are sprinkled throughout the magazine in brief department features, Q&As and longer cover stories.
The information that is in highest demand runs the gamut from teen health studies to expert advice on issues like gynecological treatments, parental abuse and
nutrition/fitness.
Editors/Lead Time
PR Pitches:
Amy Fishbein, associate editor
[email protected]
Editors are typically working three months in advance.
Methods
Email is best.
Expect a turnaround of about four to eight weeks for story ideas that are used.
Fishbein also likes to file evergreen story ideas for a few months.
Comments
Health experts are always sought, particularly in the areas of:
- nutrition/wellness;
- fitness;
- psychology;
- gynecology;
- dermatology; and
- general medicine.
The Web site will soon accept pitches for hard news items and links to health organizations.