This research explores how media messaging about sedentary behavior affects people with spinal cord injuries. Through qualitative interviews, participants described “sitting is the new smoking” headlines as offensive and exclusionary. The study advocates more accurate, inclusive scientific communication and is helping develop media guidelines that better reflect the realities of disability and health.

This research examines how “sitting is the new smoking” headlines affect people with spinal cord injury. Interviews revealed these messages are harmful and exclusionary. Reframing sedentary behavior as low energy expenditure, rather than sitting itself, improves understanding. The work promotes inclusive, evidence-based public health communication.