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Mel Gibson and cancer
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Health and illness are central to human life. Health signifies strength and hope, while illness represents weakness and challenges. To preserve health and combat disease, billions of dollars are invested in medical science and research, with millions of professionals dedicating their lives to this field. It’s no surprise that a universal greeting often includes inquiries about health.

A few days ago, I watched a video that garnered over six million views worldwide in just four days. This video, circulating on YouTube, featured a lengthy interview conducted by comedian and podcast host Joe Rogan with American actor Mel Gibson. The interview spanned two hours and 20 minutes, during which Gibson shared his life philosophy and delved into metaphysics — the study of the supernatural.

In the 95th minute, Gibson shifted the conversation to health and illness, focusing on cancer, a chronic and well-known disease. To spark interest and provoke discussion, he claimed that several acquaintances in the advanced fourth stage of cancer had allegedly recovered by using ivermectin and albendazole — medications traditionally used to treat parasites, with ivermectin also being controversially linked to COVID-19 treatment. He also mentioned methylene blue, a drug typically employed as a dye to track cancer cells or treat high levels of methemoglobin in the blood, rather than as a direct treatment for cancer.

Such statements should not be taken seriously, as Gibson is not a medical professional. Cancer patients following his claims could potentially face harm or even hold him legally accountable. It’s especially concerning when such unverified claims come from a prominent figure who may influence others.

Rogan, in turn, expanded on Gibson’s comments by discussing the connection between methylene blue and mitochondria — the cellular organelles responsible for generating energy. Research in this area focuses on neurodegenerative diseases and metabolic improvement. The interview also touched on the longstanding debate about the pharmaceutical industry’s financial motives, particularly its role in prioritizing profit over affordable treatments. This controversial topic often raises questions about whether companies avoid developing low-cost medications for diseases like cancer.

While the interview was rich with provocative topics, much of the information about cancer was not grounded in evidence-based science. Listeners should approach such claims with caution, especially regarding unapproved drugs for cancer treatment.

Health is humanity’s most valuable asset, making it essential to prioritize affordable and effective treatments. Public discussions, especially those led by influential figures, should serve as reminders to advocate for accessible healthcare and highlight the urgent need to address the rising cost of medicine.

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