

Matthew C. Ehrlich, "The Krebiozen Hoax: How a Mysterious Cancer Drug Shook Organized Medicine" (U Illinois Press, 2024)
Sep 11, 2024
Matthew C. Ehrlich, a journalism professor emeritus, discusses the Krebiozen hoax—a dubious cancer treatment that gained traction in the 1950s, notably championed by physiologist Andrew Ivy. They explore the drug's origins and its alarming embrace by desperate patients, despite its dubious efficacy. The conversation delves into how societal fears shape belief in misinformation and the perils of unverified medical claims that echo contemporary issues. Ehrlich sheds light on a scandal that speaks to the ongoing struggle between hope and scientific skepticism.
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
1 2 3 4 5 6
Intro
00:00 • 2min
Exploring the Inspiration Behind a Compelling Hoax
02:08 • 2min
The Krebiozen Controversy
04:05 • 12min
Exploring the Krebiozen Hoax: Historical Reflections and Research Decisions
16:10 • 2min
The Krebiozen Controversy: Truth and Deception in Cancer Treatment
18:14 • 16min
Navigating Book Publishing and Local History
33:51 • 7min