Healthy Skepticism Library item: 7068

Warning: This library includes all items relevant to health product marketing that we are aware of regardless of quality. Often we do not agree with all or part of the contents.

Publication type: Journal Article

Shepherd CB.
Shark cartilage in the water: Effective legislation is already in place but is not being properly used.
BMJ 2006 Dec 9; 333:(7580):1222
http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/333/7580/1222

Abstract:

Waxman has identified the need for effective legislation to protect vulnerable cancer patients from unproven and/or harmful cancer remedies.1

The UK 1939 Cancer Act in section 4.1 prohibits the publication of any advertisement containing an offer to treat any person for cancer.

I have now made successful use of this legislation in relation to patients who have used cancer therapies that have been advertised in both the complementary health sector and by registered medical practitioners associated with a registered pharmacy.2 3

If doctors identify complementary practitioners, commercial companies, or even registered health professionals who are advertising cancer remedies they should contact their local trading standards department, who have a responsibility to enforce the act. In the case of registered medical practitioners, the General Medical Council should also be notified.