Pro Ana sites in media crosshairs
With the availability and accessibility of the internet Pro Ana sites have become popular but mainstream outrage and media attention threaten to create an atmosphere of censorhsip.
Pro ana is a shortened term for "pro anorexia" which many of us know is an illness that drives the person suffering from it to attempt to lose weight continuously. Many times these people, usually girls, become so unhealthy that they end up hospitalized or even dead.
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That said, there is a heated debate going on all over the web and even on TV debating whether or not the sites should be allowed to operate or not.
On one hand we have a duty to protect our kids and keep them insulated from harm.
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On the other hand we have the right to free speech and if you start to limit one thing you find dangerous then others will look to censor topics they find dangerous.
For instance some people feel football is dangerous, several NFL players are organizing to sue the NFL due to concussions and we know there are other even more dangerous injuries that may occur.
On the flip side of the Pro Ana debate some may argue that being overweight and unfit is dangerous. We have all heard that obesity can cause a number of ailments such as heart disease, diabetes and other health issues. Should sites that depict these types of images be censored?
Finally, not all sites are created equal. Some sites appear in search for Pro Ana and even have pro ana in the title that do not advocate dangerous habits at all. There are a few of these websites that actively speak out about starvation, self image and control and seek to educate and inform people trying to lose weight.
Perhaps the media should focus on highlighting these types of Thinspiration or Pro Ana sites they should bring attention to those sites that promote healthy living.
What are your thoughts?
