Fact Check: autism causes vaccines

Fact Check: "Autism Causes Vaccines"

What We Know

The claim that "autism causes vaccines" is fundamentally flawed and misrepresents the scientific consensus on the relationship between vaccines and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Numerous studies have established that there is no causal link between vaccines and the development of autism. For instance, the CDC states that extensive research has shown that vaccines do not cause autism, and this conclusion has been supported by various studies, including a significant review by the National Academy of Medicine. This review found that vaccines are very safe, with rare exceptions, and that no vaccine ingredients have been linked to autism.

Additionally, a 2013 CDC study focused on the number of antigens received in vaccines during the first two years of life and found no difference in the total amount of antigens between children with ASD and those without. This reinforces the conclusion that vaccines do not cause autism.

The ingredient thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative used in some vaccines, has also been studied extensively. A 2004 review by the Institute of Medicine concluded that the evidence does not support a causal relationship between thimerosal-containing vaccines and autism. Since then, multiple studies have consistently found no link between thimerosal and ASD.

Analysis

The assertion that vaccines cause autism is a misconception that has been debunked by a wealth of scientific evidence. The CDC and other health organizations have conducted numerous studies that collectively demonstrate the safety of vaccines. For example, the Johns Hopkins public health analysis indicates that over 16 well-conducted, large population-based studies have found no relationship between vaccines and autism. These studies were designed by various investigators across different countries, further validating the robustness of their findings.

Moreover, the initial claims linking the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine to autism stemmed from a now-discredited study by Andrew Wakefield, which has been thoroughly discredited and retracted. Subsequent inquiries have shown that the study was based on fraudulent data, leading to serious consequences for Wakefield and a loss of credibility for his claims (source).

While some individuals may still express concerns about vaccines, these fears are often rooted in misinformation rather than scientific evidence. As noted in a 2017 article, myths surrounding vaccines and autism have been perpetuated by various groups, including some scientists and parent advocacy groups, but these claims lack empirical support.

Conclusion

Verdict: False
The claim that "autism causes vaccines" is not supported by scientific evidence. Extensive research has consistently shown that vaccines do not cause autism, and the notion is based on debunked theories and misinformation. The overwhelming consensus among health organizations, including the CDC and the National Academy of Medicine, is that vaccines are safe and do not contribute to the development of autism spectrum disorder.