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Health conspiracy theories are widely believed
Key Excerpts from Article on Website of USA Today
Posted: March 31st, 2014
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/03/19/health-...
Nearly half of American adults believe the federal government, corporations or both are involved in at least one conspiracy to cover up health information, a new survey finds. Conspiracy theories on everything from cancer cures to cellphones to vaccines are well known and accepted by sizable segments of the population, according to a research letter published this week in JAMA Internal Medicine. The findings reflect "a very low level of trust" in government and business, especially in pharmaceutical companies, says study co-author Eric Oliver, a professor of political science at the University of Chicago. The online survey of 1,351 adults found: 37% agree the Food and Drug Administration is keeping "natural cures for cancer and other diseases" away from the public because of "pressure from drug companies." 20% believe health officials are hiding evidence that cellphones cause cancer. 20% believe doctors and health officials push child vaccines even though they "know these vaccines cause autism and other psychological disorders." Smaller numbers endorse theories involving fluoride, genetically modified foods and the deliberate infection of African Americans with HIV. 49% believe at least one of the theories and 18% believe at least three. The beliefs also go along with certain health behaviors, the survey found. Those who believe at least three health conspiracy theories are less likely to use sunscreen, get flu shots or get check-ups and are more likely to use herbal remedies and eat organic foods.
Note: For an intriguing list of 10 major health cover-ups with evidence to back it up, click here.
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