FTC targets false cancer treatment products

WASHINGTON The Federal Trade Commission on Thursday announced 11 law enforcement actions challenging deceptive advertising of bogus cancer cures.

“There is no credible scientific evidence that any of the products marketed by these companies can prevent, cure, or treat cancer of any kind,” stated Lydia Parnes, director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.

In each case, the company is charged with violating the FTC Act, which bars deceptive claims. Some complaints allege that the companies also falsely touted clinical or scientific proof for their products.

Of the 11 complaints the FTC announced today, six have been resolved by proposed settlements; the rest will be litigated. In all cases, the companies will be required to notify consumers who purchased the products challenged in the complaints that there was little or no scientific evidence demonstrating the products’ effectiveness for treating or curing cancer. They also must urge these customers to consult with their doctors about the products. In addition, the companies will be prohibited from selling or disclosing their consumer lists to others.

“Many of these products are scams,” Parnes said, “and let’s face it, when you’re battling cancer, the last thing you need is a scam. The best idea is to talk to your doctor about any treatment that you are thinking about taking.”

The FTC also announced a new Web site about bogus cancer cures. The site, www.ftc.gov/curious, tells consumers how to spot and report bogus claims they see online, and urges people with cancer to talk to their treatment team about any products they’d like to try.

The companies targeted by FTC include Bioque Technologies, Cleansing Time Pro, Daniel Chapter One, Gemtronics, Herbs for Cancer, Jim Clark’s All Natural Cancer Therapy, Native Essence Herb Company, Nu-Gen Nutrition, Omega Supply, Premium-essiac-tea-4less and Westberry Enterprises.