The Lab Detective | Tortoise Investigates The fall | Dr Anti-vax Ep 1
Oct 24, 2023
A British doctor sparks a global health panic about vaccines, igniting the modern anti-vax movement. The impact of Andrew Wakefield's controversial paper on vaccines and autism is examined, along with the decline in childhood vaccinations. The aftermath of the Sadeo case on the anti-vax movement is explored. Robert De Niro's wealth and support for the podcast is discussed.
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Wakefield's MMR Claim
- Andrew Wakefield's 1998 Lancet paper linked MMR jab to autism, causing a media frenzy.
- The Royal Free Hospital held a press conference, but Wakefield contradicted the agreed message.
Press Conference Fallout
- The Royal Free Hospital press conference backfired when Wakefield advised separate vaccinations.
- Professor Zukamun insisted MMR was safe, but the press focused on Wakefield's warning.
Wakefield's US Impact
- Wakefield's claims quickly spread to the US, impacting public perception of vaccines.
- Adverse event reports spiked, changing how Americans viewed vaccine safety.