Overview

• At the ASCO annual meeting in Chicago, oncologists reported patients rejecting surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy in favor of treatments like coffee enemas, raw juice diets and vitamin C infusions, often returning too late or dying.
• Studies presented at ASCO and research from the University of Bologna found that nearly all TikTok and YouTube videos about cancer screening or treatment offer low-quality or incorrect content.
• Surveys reveal more than half of respondents distrust scientific advice on cancer, a trend that doctors warn is driving patients away from evidence-based care.
• NHS national medical director Prof Stephen Powis and Macmillan Cancer Support leaders are urging patients to verify any ‘miracle cure’ claims through trusted sources such as the NHS website or their care teams.
• Experts say the rapid spread of false treatment claims online represents a growing global health crisis as cancer incidence rises alongside an ageing population.