Doctor Who has been a cultural phenomenon since its debut in 1963, and a new study explores the health impacts of festive broadcasts of this iconic show. The research focuses on the potential connection between airing Doctor Who episodes during the festive season and a reduction in population mortality rates across the UK.
The lead researcher, Richard D Riley, used a time series analysis to examine mortality data over 60 years. He revealed that festive episodes, especially those aired on Christmas Day, were associated with fewer deaths in the subsequent year. “We found a significant reduction in mortality rates after episodes aired during Christmas,” Riley said. His analysis showed that these broadcasts were correlated with a reduction of 0.60 fewer deaths per 1,000 person-years in England and Wales.
Doctor Who’s influence extends beyond mere entertainment. The show features a Time Lord, the Doctor, who embodies values of kindness and intervention, qualities also expected from healthcare professionals. Riley adds, “The Doctor’s actions on screen mirror those of real doctors who work through the festive period, often making a significant difference to the lives of many.”
The study examined 31 festive broadcasts of Doctor Who, including 14 episodes aired on Christmas Day. Results indicated that episodes broadcast during the holiday season were linked to improved health outcomes in the population. Riley explains, “We modeled the impact of these broadcasts on annual mortality rates, accounting for trends and found a consistent reduction in deaths.”
The interrupted time series analysis further strengthened these findings. From 2005 onward, when Christmas Day episodes became regular, mortality rates saw a sharp decline. Riley states, “The results suggest that consistent festive broadcasts contributed to this downward trend.”
As the findings prompt reflection on the significance of healthcare availability over the holidays, Riley emphasizes, “Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who work during these times should be appreciated more. Our study suggests that the presence of even a fictional doctor can lower mortality rates.”
The implications of this research reach far beyond the UK, especially since Doctor Who is now broadcast globally on Disney+. Riley suggests, “If the show continues airing during the festive period, it might positively impact health outcomes in other parts of the world as well.”
With the upcoming 2023 festive season set to feature a new Doctor Who episode, the health benefits of the show continue to be explored. Riley concludes, “This study emphasizes the potential of television programs like Doctor Who to influence public health positively, even if indirectly.”
Citation:
Riley RD. Effect of a doctor working during the festive period on population health: natural experiment using 60 years of Doctor Who episodes (the TARDIS study). BMJ. 2023;383. doi:10.1136/bmj-2023-077143.
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