Vaccine opponents claim COVID-19 vaccines drove up UK cancer deaths

The persistence and widespread nature of false claims linking COVID-19 vaccines to cancer increase their risk. Debunking messaging may emphasize that there is considerable evidence that COVID-19 vaccines are not linked to any cancer and that the claims are not based on peer-reviewed research or official analysis of U.K. data. The report is a basic statistical analysis posted on the website of a prominent vaccine opponent who frequently promotes false and unsubstantiated claims about COVID-19 vaccines. Messaging may also emphasize that a rise in cancer deaths in the U.K. predates COVID-19 but was worsened by the pandemic, resulting in months-long delays in diagnoses and life-saving treatments. Research suggests that even short delays in cancer treatment significantly increase mortality. Talking points may also explain that “turbo cancer” is a fake term coined and circulated exclusively by vaccine opponents.

Fact Checking Source(s): Reuters, FactCheck.org