Subscribe now

GUT disease does not make children more likely to develop autism. The new finding undermines a crucial link in the argument that the combined measles, mumps and rubella vaccine can cause autism.

Critics of the MMR vaccine argue that it aggravates chronic gut disease, which subsequently triggers autism. But by analysing data from British GPs, Corri Black’s team at Boston University has shown that children who developed autism were no more likely than others to have had gut disorders (British Medical Journal, vol 325, p 419). The results show that about 9 per cent of vaccinated children suffer gut problems,…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

Popular articles

Trending New Scientist articles

Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop