When first published in 1977 this book caused a storm for Dr Vernon Coleman suggested that most medical research should be stopped. And he explained why in precise detail. The book was well received by reviewers. For example, the Daily Express said: "Required reading for any Minister of Health" and Nursing Times said "I hope this book becomes a bestseller among doctors, nurses...and the wider public who, after all, have to pay for the research." The Guardian said: "If you believe Dr Vernon Coleman the main beneficiaries of the hundred million pounds worth of medical research done in this country (the UK) each year are certainly not the patients."