If you are familiar with my voice, you know that I have a special place in my heart for people that are able to make complex information simple. I have been in the sciences for many years and, yes I admit it, my eyes gloss over when I come across complex scientific information that is not explained in a way that appeals to those who may not be as closely connected to an issue. Or, in other words, if your explanation does not answer the basic question, “Why should I give a rat’s behind about your study?” Then, you fail. #notwinning

For example, as a laboratory researcher, I may care about all of the intricate details that went into successfully growing an endothelial cell under limited light and sanitized/quarantined environments in order to assess the unknown progression of Anti-phospholipid Syndrome (APLS), but when I present my findings to my community (my mom, the media, and others who are tasked with taking this knowledge and applying it to health prevention), all I need to explain is how this new knowledge will save, prolong or make your life as a lupus patient easier and pain-free.  Get it?

(zzzzzzz) OK, I digress….read on….sheesh.

Well, a recent and growing trend in public relations and communication is the use of infographics to translate complex data into easy reader friendly formats. Lab 42 provided an infographic that illustrates the opinions of 500 males, ages 18 to 35, about their fast-food habits via social networks. The results made more than a few of us hungry for lunch. It’s a pretty humorous comparison, especially since we can all relate to those delicious (occasional) McDonald’s fries and a Sonic slurpee. Take a look below. Enjoy.

*sips cherry coke*