It is absolutely crucial that any article about "alternative" medicine and cancer should be as accurate as possible. Unfortunately, Dr Gillian Bendelow's article (The Argus, April 2) is not.
She said that some alternative and complementary treatments are less contentious and widely-used than others. She then listed among these alternatives DHEA and melatonin.
These are not supplements and any health store or alternative practitioner selling or distributing them would be breaking the law. DHEA and melatonin are hormones which can only be prescribed by a GP.
She also went on to say that pyridoxine and B6 may be useful. This is slightly misleading for your readers as they are the same thing.
Finally, I would question her statement that there is "scant scientific evidence" for complementary therapies.
Anyone wanting the facts should get a copy of the book Natural Compounds In Cancer Therapy by John Boik. This book provides clear and powerful evidence in the form of all the research that has been done on various herbs, vitamins, essential fatty acids and other natural compounds that may help with cancer.
Those affected by cancer need good quality information. This book provides it by only giving the reader access to proven research.
I agree with Dr Bendelow that the internet needs to be used with caution. This is why John Boik's book is so valuable.
-Simon Boyd, Newhaven
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article