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Chiropractors and vaccination: A historical perspective
J B Campbell1, J W Busse, H S Injeyan
1Department of Medical Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Pediatrics
|April 1, 2000
Summary
A segment of chiropractors holds antivaccination views, rooted in early chiropractic philosophy that rejected germ theory. This stance negatively impacts public vaccine acceptance and medical community
Area of Science:
- Integrative medicine
- Public health
- Medical history
Background:
- Vaccination is a cornerstone of infectious disease control, supported by extensive scientific evidence.
- A notable faction within the chiropractic profession exhibits a strong bias against vaccination.
- This antivaccination stance is examined for its historical and philosophical underpinnings.
Observation:
- Early chiropractic philosophy rejected the germ theory of disease and vaccination.
- This historical perspective attributed disease to spinal nerve dysfunction (subluxation), a concept now scientifically discredited.
- A minority of chiropractors continue to adhere to these outdated principles.
Findings:
- The rejection of vaccination by some chiropractors stems from historical philosophical tenets.
- While many chiropractors now embrace evidence-based practices, including vaccination, a conservative segment maintains opposition.
- This internal division within chiropractic influences external perceptions.
Implications:
- The antivaccination bias among some chiropractors negatively affects public vaccine acceptance.
- It also hinders the integration and acceptance of the chiropractic profession by mainstream medical communities.
- Addressing these historical philosophical conflicts is crucial for public health and professional advancement.