Closer look at autism and the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine.
OBJECTIVE
To educate pharmacists regarding the hypothesis that the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is linked to the development of autism.


METHODS
Articles published from 1998 to 2009 were identified through electronic searches of Medline.


METHODS
Articles were included if they evaluated or reviewed a possible link between the MMR vaccine and autism or discussed MMR epidemiology, legal proceedings involving the MMR vaccine and autism, or health professionals' impact on immunization decisions.


RESULTS
A total of 27 articles were identified. Of the articles, 74% (20 of 27) were included in the review because of their relevance to the study topic.


CONCLUSIONS
The evidence presented does not show a causal relationship between the MMR vaccine and autism. Myths presented to potentially support any relationship between the MMR vaccine and autism have not been proven. Expert testimony refuting initial scientific theories has led to Supreme Court decisions that do not support a link between the MMR vaccine and autism. Pharmacists and all health care providers are responsible for informing and educating parents and families regarding this information so that they can make informed decisions about immunizations.
College of Pharmacy,University of Illinois at Chicago, and SUPERVALU Pharmacies, Chicago, USA. emily.ann.hensley@gmail.com
Emily
E
Hensley
Leslie
L
Briars
D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology*; D006266:Health Education / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D007114:Immunization / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D015994:Incidence; D008457:Measles / Q000453:epidemiology; D022542:Measles-Mumps-Rubella Vaccine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D015995:Prevalence; D013849:Thimerosal / Q000009:adverse effects
D022542:Measles-Mumps-Rubella Vaccine; D013849:Thimerosal