'Staggering' number of people believe unproven claims about vaccines, raw milk

6 hours ago

More than two-thirds (70%) of respondents in a 16-country survey believe at least one false or unproven health claim, indicating widespread questioning of scientific evidence.
Common false beliefs include that childhood vaccinations' risks outweigh benefits, fluoride in water is harmful, and taking paracetamol during pregnancy causes autism, with 25-32% believing each and 17-39% unsure.
The findings challenge assumptions that such beliefs are limited to fringe groups; believers often have higher education and news consumption, pointing to confusion from information overload.
Other studies corroborate declining trust, like reduced confidence in children's vaccines during COVID-19 in most countries, and 34% of U.S. adults linking paracetamol in pregnancy to autism despite lack of evidence.

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