Epidemiology of gun related violence might seem odd, but violent deaths, including those associated with guns, should be considered a disease. We should therefore use a similar methodology used in treating disease, to identify potential interventions for gun related homicides. Gun control laws are one proposed intervention, or class of interventions. Like with all proposed interventions, we need to test for efficacy and safety. Efficacy requires defining an outcome, and that outcome must be reasonable. We must also take into account what is known as all-cause mortality.« Continue »
Email to Steve G. Robison, MPH of the Immunization Program at Oregon Health Authority, Portland, OR
I recently came across a study which tried to place blame for a 2012 Pertussis outbreak on an unvaccinated population. While it is possible that this population was the source of the infection, the study methodology, as is often the case with vaccine studies, was flawed and so the study constitutes little more than fuel for a witch hunt. Normally I just comment on these studies, and provide my analysis for my readers. However, because this study was conducted by members of a government agency, I decided I might as well respond in a more direct fashion by sending the agency an email.« Continue »