Beware of Health Scams: A Cautionary Tale for Cancer Patients

Newcastle disease

Dear Doctor,
My mother is a nasopharyngeal cancer patient, and someone introduced her to a product and encouraged her to attend a seminar hosted by a multi-level marketing company called Xinhesh.
I found information online regarding their MLM business.
My mother took her pathology report to the seminar, where Mr.
Xia Huang, the person in charge of Xinhesh, told her that she had no more than a year to live and urged her to take health supplements produced by Xinhesh.

I have researched Xinhesh's products online and found that they have passed food safety inspections and are classified as food products, not medications.
However, they claimed to my mother that she would see results in two months and that her condition could be completely controlled in a year and a half.
I also checked with the Department of Health, which stated that food products that have passed inspections cannot claim to have therapeutic effects, as this would be illegal.

Despite this, Xinhesh has made numerous claims to my mother, even citing examples of people who have taken their products and have not experienced any issues with cancer for many years.
I believe this may involve deceptive practices, and their health supplements are quite expensive, with claims that my mother's condition would require an expenditure of NT$110,000 per month.

Doctor, how should we handle this situation? My mother firmly believes that these health supplements could provide her with a glimmer of hope.
I would greatly appreciate your guidance on this matter.
Sincerely,
Yang Jingyi

Yang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/07/15

Dr. Xu Wenming reply Pharmacology

Ms.
Yang,
1.
You may first visit the Food and Drug Administration's website at http://food.doh.gov.tw to check the approved health foods under the "Announcements" section to confirm that the company's products are recognized as "health foods" by the Department of Health.

2.
Additionally, please review the "Announcements" section for food-related regulations, specifically the Health Food Management Act, to determine if the company has violated any management regulations.

3.
From the perspective of a hospital pharmacist, it is recommended to seek a qualified oncologist with proper certification for formal diagnostic advice and treatment.

Reply Date: 2004/07/15

More Info

Dear Yang Jingyi,
I appreciate you reaching out regarding your mother's situation. It is indeed concerning to hear about the tactics employed by certain companies that prey on vulnerable patients, particularly those battling serious illnesses like nasopharyngeal cancer. Your vigilance in researching the claims made by the company, Xinhe Si, is commendable and necessary in today's world where health scams are unfortunately prevalent.

Firstly, it is crucial to understand that while dietary supplements can play a role in supporting overall health, they are not a substitute for conventional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. The claims made by the representatives of Xinhe Si—that their products can cure cancer or significantly prolong life—are not supported by scientific evidence. In fact, such assertions can be classified as misleading and potentially harmful, as they may lead patients to forgo effective medical treatment in favor of unproven alternatives.

The fact that Xinhe Si is a multi-level marketing (MLM) company raises additional red flags. MLMs often rely on personal testimonials rather than scientific research to promote their products, which can lead to exaggerated claims about their effectiveness. It's important to note that while some individuals may report positive outcomes, these anecdotes do not constitute reliable evidence of efficacy. Moreover, the high cost of their products, as you mentioned—NT$110,000 per month—is exorbitant and could place a significant financial burden on your family without providing any real benefit to your mother's health.

Given the situation, here are some steps you can take:
1. Consult with Healthcare Professionals: Encourage your mother to discuss her treatment options with her oncologist or a healthcare professional she trusts. They can provide evidence-based recommendations and help her understand the importance of adhering to proven cancer treatments.

2. Educate Your Mother: Share information with her about the nature of cancer treatments and the risks associated with relying on unverified supplements. Sometimes, patients may be more receptive to advice when it comes from credible sources, such as medical professionals or reputable cancer organizations.

3. Report the Company: If you believe that Xinhe Si is engaging in deceptive practices, consider reporting them to local health authorities or consumer protection agencies. In many countries, it is illegal for companies to make unsubstantiated health claims about their products.

4. Support Groups: Look for support groups for cancer patients and their families. These groups can provide emotional support and practical advice from others who have faced similar challenges. They can also help your mother feel less isolated in her journey.

5. Focus on Mental Health: The emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Encourage your mother to seek counseling or join support groups that focus on mental health. This can help her cope with her diagnosis and the stress of treatment.

In conclusion, while it is natural for your mother to seek hope and solutions in her battle against cancer, it is essential to approach such claims with skepticism and prioritize evidence-based medical care. Your role as a supportive family member is invaluable, and by guiding her towards reliable information and professional advice, you can help her make informed decisions about her health.

Best wishes to you and your mother during this challenging time.

Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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