GMC asked to investigate MMR research allegations

A doctor at the centre of a controversy over research methods used in the investigation that linked the MMR vaccine with autism has said he would welcome an investigation into his work.

A study by Dr Andrew Wakefield published in The Lancet in 1998, which led many parents to reject the triple Mumps Measles Rubella vaccine for toddlers over fears that it may cause autism, is the focus of allegations that there was a conflict of interest in the work.

The alleged conflict of interest concerns another study by Dr Wakefield examining the grounds for compensation by parents who claimed that their children had been affected by the MMR vaccine.

While the substance of Dr Wakefield's research findings are not challenged, the Sunday Times article has sparked calls for an investigation into whether the research broke established rules for these types of scientific studies.

Dr Wakefield said that he stood by his findings and would welcome an inquiry. The GMC are understood to be examining the allegations to see if any further action is necessary.

Several research studies have failed to conclusively reveal a link between MMR vaccination and autism. The condition tends to be diagnosed around the same time that the vaccination is given and medical experts claim that the two are not linked.

One recent study in the US journal Pediatrics showed no relation between the combined MMR vaccination and the development of autism. The panel of experts concluded that autism, usually diagnosed during the toddler years, occurs when children receive many vaccinations.

Scientific interest has concentrated on a commonly used preservative in vaccines. Although the substance, thimerosal, is no longer used in childhood vaccines in the US.

(SP)