The bleach cure: a fake cancer treatment thriving on Telegram

A 50,000-member Telegram group promotes chlorine dioxide as a cancer cure. The debate splits between believers and skeptics, with accusations of pseudoscience and fraud.

English · Original discussion in Spanish · Published

The disinfectant, the latest miracle cancer cure thriving on Telegram

A Telegram group with 50,000 members promotes the consumption of chlorine dioxide as a cancer treatment. The community, active for 286 days, has become a hotbed of testimonials and misinformation, where criticism of conventional medicine mixes with supposed miracle cures.

The 'alternative' that divides believers

The debate in Telegram's Economics subforum, where the conversation originated, shows a clear division. While some staunchly defend chlorine dioxide (CDS), others warn of the dangers of consuming scientifically unproven products. Discussions often degenerate into personal attacks, with mutual accusations of being "sheep" or "system agents."

The lack of rigor is palpable. Chlorine dioxide is confused with bleach, studies without scientific basis are cited, and the medical and pharmaceutical community is systematically discredited. References to figures like Andreas Kalcker, a promoter of CDS without medical training, are common among supporters of this therapy.

The business behind the misinformation

Although many in the group claim not to sell anything, the promotion of alternative therapies without scientific evidence creates a breeding ground for fraud. The El Confidencial article shared in the thread already warned months ago about the risks and how these groups take advantage of the helplessness of the sick. The €1.2 million fine for Josep Pamies for promoting illegal compounds is a clear example of the economic and legal consequences of such practices.

The conversation, with more than 1,100 replies, reflects the persistence of these communities on social media, fueled by distrust of institutions and the desperate search for solutions to serious illnesses. The economy, in this case, is alarmingly intertwined with health.

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Summary of a discussion on Burbuja.info - Foro de economía, actualidad y política., translated from Spanish and reviewed before publication. Read the full discussion (1143 replies).

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