Authorities are investigating a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) clinic in the central Hubei province following the deaths of at least 15 people who sought cancer treatment there. The Yaowang Valley Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic, located in a remote northern mountain range, has come under scrutiny for allegedly using unverified claims and dangerous practices to attract vulnerable patients.
The clinic, established on April 18 and shut down by May 31, gained notoriety after its founder, Wu Pengfei, claimed to cure cancer using TCM. Wu’s assertions, amplified by false promotions, drew hundreds of patients to the facility. Chinese media reported that Wu had partnered with Hou Yuanxiang, who claimed to have “unique medical skills” and called himself the “first person in China to treat cancer using TCM.”
Despite these bold assertions, Hou was previously convicted for producing and selling counterfeit drugs and now faces new charges related to violations of drug management regulations.
An investigation by the Beijing News uncovered harrowing stories of families who placed their trust in the clinic, only to suffer devastating losses. During its brief operation, the clinic treated 392 patients, with 15 deaths and 20 cases of severe illness reported.
One tragic case involved Wang Xiaoying from Qingdao, whose brother turned to the clinic for help after his cancer diagnosis in February. Ms. Wang shared that her brother paid 18,620 yuan (approximately $2,570) for a seven-day treatment called “plum blossom moxibustion” and a secret herbal prescription. The consultation lasted less than five minutes.
Moxibustion, a TCM therapy involving the burning of moxa (a dried herb), was central to the treatment. However, after taking the prescribed medication, Mr. Wang developed severe diarrhea, lost five kilograms in just two weeks, and was later hospitalized with ascites, a severe fluid buildup in the abdomen. He succumbed to his illness a month later.
A former doctor at the clinic, speaking anonymously, revealed that Chinese aconite—a toxic plant native to East Asia—was a key ingredient in the clinic’s medications. Aconite is known for its poisonous properties and can be fatal if improperly prepared or consumed in unsafe doses.
Patients reported a range of alarming symptoms, including fatigue, loss of appetite, constipation, vomiting, and other complications that mirrored the effects of poisoning.
In response to its actions, the clinic was fined 417,000 yuan (approximately $57,360) for violations including employing unlicensed staff and failing to maintain proper records of medicine purchases and prescriptions. Authorities described these activities as “illegal acts” that posed serious risks to patients.
The investigation aims to uncover the full extent of misconduct and hold those responsible accountable. Local authorities have promised transparency and timely updates on their findings.
The Yaowang Valley clinic’s name, which translates to “Medicine King Valley,” has drawn scorn online, with many calling it a stark irony given the tragic outcomes. Social media platforms, including Sina Weibo, have been flooded with outrage and warnings against unverified alternative treatments.
One user wrote, “All these ‘secret medicines’ or ‘medicine passed down from generations’ are unreliable. Not only do they want your money, but they also delay you from seeking proper treatment.”
Wu and Hou’s promotional tactics played a significant role in the clinic’s initial success. Wu falsely claimed that Hou had cured over 3,000 cancer patients and achieved a tumor disappearance rate of over 80%. These figures, combined with professionally produced videos and glowing online testimonials, misled desperate patients seeking hope in the face of terminal illness.
Local reports suggest that the clinic’s marketing relied heavily on social media platforms, which can be difficult to regulate. Such platforms are a double-edged sword, providing a platform for sharing medical breakthroughs but also enabling the spread of dangerous pseudoscience.
The case highlights broader concerns about alternative cancer treatments and their regulation in China. Many patients turn to TCM or other non-traditional therapies out of fear, distrust of modern medicine, or hope for a miracle cure. While TCM has deep cultural roots and is widely respected, its misuse and commercialization can have dire consequences.
In recent years, Chinese authorities have cracked down on fraudulent medical practices, but cases like Yaowang Valley reveal gaps in oversight. Experts stress the importance of balancing respect for traditional practices with stringent regulations to protect public health.
For families who lost loved ones, the investigation offers little comfort. Many are calling for justice and stronger measures to prevent similar tragedies. Ms. Wang Xiaoying expressed her grief and frustration, saying, “We trusted them because they promised hope. Instead, they took my brother’s life.”
The incident has sparked widespread discussions about the risks of unverified treatments and the need for public awareness. Medical experts urge patients to consult licensed professionals and verify claims before undergoing treatment.
One doctor noted, “Cancer is a complex disease that requires evidence-based treatment. Turning to unverified methods not only wastes precious time but can also worsen the condition.”
As the investigation unfolds, authorities face mounting pressure to ensure accountability and reform. Beyond punishing those responsible, systemic changes are needed to prevent similar occurrences, including:
Tighter Regulation: Stricter licensing requirements and oversight of TCM clinics and practitioners.
Public Education: Campaigns to educate citizens about the risks of unverified treatments.
Monitoring Online Promotions: Enhanced scrutiny of medical claims on social media platforms.
