BMJ Group retraction of COVID-19 mortality study

The BMJ Group retracted a 2024 study published in BMJ Public Health concerning excess mortality rates across 47 Western countries between 2020 and 2022. The publisher cited “misinformation on causes of death and limited original work conducted by the authors” as the primary reasons for the decision.

While the original paper noted over three million excess deaths and suggested COVID-19 vaccines appeared responsible for many “suspected adverse events,” the journal noted the discussion of mortality causes “lacks rigour, and includes misinformation.” The retraction specifically challenges the authors’ interpretation of the data rather than the raw mortality estimates.

An investigation by the Princess Máxima Center, where three of the four authors were affiliated, found no evidence of data fabrication or malicious intent. However, the probe concluded the paper gave “disproportionate attention” to the possibility that vaccination and containment measures contributed to mortality rates. Following these events, lead author Dr. Saskia Mostert resigned from the center. Some independent experts have criticized the retraction, suggesting it may set a “terrible precedent” regarding political pressure on scientific research.