Andrew Wakefield is a former British doctor who is best known for his controversial research published in 1998. He claimed a link between the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, and the development of autism in children. This study sparked widespread public fear and led to a decline in vaccination rates. However, Wakefield's research was later discredited due to ethical concerns and methodological flaws. Subsequent investigations revealed that he had financial conflicts of interest, and his medical license was revoked in 2010. His work has had lasting effects on public health and vaccine hesitancy.