FDA Warns Against Fake Cancer Cures

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned 23 U.S. companies and two foreign individuals to stop selling and advertising products claiming to prevent and cure cancer.

The products, boasting claims like, "Causes cancer cells to commit suicide!" and "Skin cancers disappear,” have not been shown to be safe and effective, according to the FDA.

In addition, the FDA has advised consumers not to use or purchase the products, which include tablets, teas, tonics, black salves, and creams, and are sold under various names on the Internet.

"Although promotions of bogus cancer 'cures' have always been a problem, the Internet has provided a mechanism for them to flourish," said Margaret O'K. Glavin, the FDA's associate commissioner for regulatory affairs in a press release. "These warning letters are an important step to ensure that consumers do not become the victim of false 'cures' that may cause greater harm to their health."

• List of the "cancer cure" products and manufacturers