A Student Research Proposal--Model #2

NOTE: When prepared in print format, this memo is two pages long. Refer to your textbook and/or information presented by your instructor for information about how to set up the printed pages (spacing, margins, second page headings, and so forth).

Memorandum

Date: May 12, 1999

To: Susan Fagan, Instructor
From: Zach McIver   

Subject: Concerns about Vaccines


Introduction

          The practice of using vaccines to prevent disease is common throughout the world. Vaccinations are highly recommended for people of all ages and backgrounds, and have been made mandatory for school age children and people working in certain health care settings. Yet, risk associated with many vaccines exists. Vaccines for diseases such as tetanus, pertussis, measles, and even polio have caused adverse reactions, resulting in disabilities and deaths. Additionally, fully vaccinated populations have experienced epidemics. Such occurrences have brought into question the efficacy of vaccines, and whether vaccines might cause the disease that they are designed to prevent.


Statement of Problem

          For vaccines to be considered effective, a strong correlation must be determined between the use of vaccines and a decline in the prevalence of disease. Because purposely exposing people to disease is unethical, the only way to determine the effectiveness of vaccines is through direct observation of a fully vaccinated population over time. Yet, other factors influence the prevalence of disease, such as hygiene and diet. Were these factors considered when vaccines were first evaluated for their effectiveness? Furthermore, have the risks that are associated with vaccinations been fully recognized, or has the profitable industry of vaccine production and use forced the medical profession to ignore such information?


Scope of Investigation

          To thoroughly research the effectiveness and risks of vaccines, I plan to investigate the following questions:

• Is the decline in the prevalence of disease because of the increased use of vaccines, or other factors?
• Do a significant number of severe reactions to vaccines occur?
• Do vaccinations cause Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)?
• Can vaccinations cause disease?
• Are vaccinations more dangerous to some groups or races of people more than others are?
• Do vaccines work?
• Do vaccinations cause Attention Deficient Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
• Are the risks of vaccinations properly documented, and are people notified of all risks prior to receiving vaccinations?

Methods

          My primary data will be obtained from interviews of local health care practitioners at various medical clinics in the Eugene/Springfield area. I will compare the literature that is provided by the clinics to determine how informed individuals are about vaccinations.

          My secondary research will consist of various studies conducted on the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. Included in these studies will be one that was published in 1994 and conducted by Dr. Guylaine Lanctot discussing the dangers of vaccines to the immune system. Additionally, I will include in my research a study conducted by a Dr. Viera Scheibner, who states, "there is no evidence whatsoever of the ability of vaccines to prevent any disease." I will also include several articles that support vaccinations for a comprehensive evaluation of vaccines.


My Qualifications

          My qualifications consist of the fact that I have a degree in physics and general science from the University of Oregon, and a strong background in statistics. Additionally, I have been working in the medical field for several years. Because of my experience in the medical field, I am aware of and interested in the issues associated with vaccinations.


Conclusion

          Vaccines have been credited for the decrease in diseases in many countries. Yet many people are beginning to believe that the introduction of vaccines into the medical profession paralleled that of antibiotics. They argue that the influence of antibiotics and other factors are truly responsible for the decline in disease. Furthermore, with the growing number of adverse reactions to vaccines, is using vaccines without further studies still acceptable?

          With your approval, and any suggestions, I will continue to research these issues associated with vaccines.

 

Last Updated 02/10/00