Homeopathy
Friday, 16 Nov 2007 13:03
Homeopathy's place within the NHS is uncertain
The value of homeopathy as an effective alternative to mainstream medicine has come under scrutiny today.
Professor Michael Baum of University College London (UCL) launched his latest of many attacks on the therapy in today's Lancet, attacking the Society for Homeopaths over its planned symposium on homeopathy's role in HIV/Aids.
He says scientific evidence proves the controversial form of treatment, which involves diluting illness-causing substances down to minimal or even non-existent concentrations, produces nothing more than a placebo effect.
The most extreme opinions describe the therapy as a form of quackery, but rising use in Britain suggests many are attempting to use it.
In 2007 British people spent £38 million on the homeopathy market and, according to estimates, this figure is expected to increase to £46 million by 2012.
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice), which is responsible for arbitrating on the suitability of treatments used in British medicine, considers complementary therapies when developing clinical guidelines.
But it does not currently recommend homeopathy for any condition, leading critics to demand a rethink on its value.
inthenews.co.uk brings you all the key responses and comment on the issue throughout the day.
