Behind the Bastards Part Two: Laetrile: The Fake Cancer Cure That Birthed The Right-Wing Medical Grifting Industry
Jul 24, 2025
The podcast delves into the bizarre history of Laetrile, a so-called cancer cure intertwined with right-wing politics and alternative medicine. It critiques the aggressive marketing tactics around this unproven therapy, revealing the ethical nightmares and dangers faced by desperate patients. The narrative also connects the rise of medical misinformation and contemporary anti-vaccine sentiments, while humorously dissecting the absurdity of medical grifting. Stories of activists highlight the moral dilemmas in patient rights versus dubious treatment claims.
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Laetrile Lacks Scientific Support
- Despite extensive case studies and patient testimonials, no compelling evidence supports Laetrile's effectiveness in treating cancer.
- Many patients actually died, some showing signs of cyanide poisoning from the treatment.
Byron Krebs' Lab Explosion Death
- Byron Krebs, involved in Laetrile promotion, died in a laboratory explosion in 1974.
- This implies dangerous, unscientific attempts to develop cancer cures within the Krebs family.
Cecile Hoffman Spurs Laetrile Activism
- Cecile Hoffman founded the International Association of Cancer Victims and Friends to promote Laetrile and alternative treatments.
- She became the first to travel to Mexico for Laetrile, pioneering medical tourism for cancer cures.
