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The gerson therapy success rate. Gerson Therapy Success Rate: Improved 5-Year Melanoma Survival Rates

What are the five-year survival rates for melanoma patients treated with Gerson therapy. How do these rates compare to conventional treatments. What does the Gerson diet therapy involve. Are there differences in survival rates between genders and melanoma stages.

Содержание

Understanding Gerson Therapy and Its Impact on Melanoma Survival Rates

Gerson therapy, a dietary approach to treating cancer, has shown promising results in improving survival rates for melanoma patients. This article examines a retrospective study comparing the five-year survival rates of melanoma patients treated with Gerson therapy to those receiving conventional treatments.

What is Gerson Therapy?

Gerson therapy is a lactovegetarian diet characterized by:

  • Low sodium, fat, and (temporarily) protein content
  • High potassium and fluid intake
  • Hourly consumption of raw vegetable and fruit juices
  • Increased metabolism through thyroid supplementation
  • Limited calorie supply (2600-3200 calories per day)
  • Coffee enemas as needed for pain management and appetite stimulation

Study Design and Patient Demographics

The retrospective study analyzed data from 153 white adult patients with superficial spreading and nodular melanoma. The patients, aged 25-72 years, were treated at a hospital in Tijuana, Mexico. The main outcome measure was the five-year survival rate by stage at admission.

How was the study conducted?

The researchers compared the survival rates of patients treated with Gerson therapy to those reported in medical literature for conventional treatments. They examined survival rates across different stages of melanoma, including localized, regionally metastasized, and distantly metastasized cases.

Impressive Survival Rates for Early-Stage Melanoma

The study revealed remarkable survival rates for patients with early-stage melanoma treated with Gerson therapy:

  • Stages I and II (localized): 100% five-year survival rate (14 patients)
  • Conventional treatment: 79% five-year survival rate (15,798 patients reported by Balch)

Does Gerson therapy significantly improve survival for localized melanoma?

The data suggests a substantial improvement in survival rates for early-stage melanoma patients treated with Gerson therapy compared to conventional treatments. However, it’s important to note the smaller sample size in the Gerson therapy group.

Regionally Metastasized Melanoma: Promising Results

For patients with regionally metastasized melanoma, Gerson therapy also showed encouraging outcomes:

  • Stage IIIA: 82% five-year survival rate (17 patients)
  • Conventional treatment: 39% five-year survival rate (103 patients from Fachklinik Hornheide)
  • Combined stages IIIA + IIIB: 70% five-year survival rate (33 patients)
  • Conventional treatment: 41% five-year survival rate (134 patients from Fachklinik Hornheide)

How significant is the improvement in survival rates for regionally metastasized melanoma?

The results indicate a substantial increase in survival rates for patients with regionally metastasized melanoma treated with Gerson therapy. The difference is particularly striking for stage IIIA patients, with more than double the survival rate compared to conventional treatments.

Advanced Melanoma: A New Stage Division and Improved Outcomes

The researchers proposed a new stage division for advanced melanoma:

  • Stage IVA: Distant lymph, skin, and subcutaneous tissue metastases
  • Stage IVB: Visceral metastases

For stage IVA melanoma, Gerson therapy showed promising results:

  • 39% five-year survival rate (18 patients)
  • Conventional treatment: 6% five-year survival rate (194 patients from the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group)

Can Gerson therapy improve outcomes for advanced melanoma patients?

The data suggests that Gerson therapy may significantly improve survival rates for patients with stage IVA melanoma. However, the study did not assess the survival impact for stage IVB patients.

Gender Differences in Melanoma Survival Rates

The study revealed interesting patterns in survival rates between male and female patients:

  • Stages I-IIIB: Identical survival rates for males and females
  • Stage IVA: Women showed a strong survival advantage

Why do women with stage IVA melanoma have better survival rates?

The study does not provide a clear explanation for the gender difference in stage IVA melanoma survival rates. Further research is needed to understand the underlying factors contributing to this disparity.

Limitations and Considerations of the Study

While the results of this study are promising, it’s important to consider several factors:

  • Retrospective design: The study analyzed past data rather than conducting a controlled trial
  • Sample size: The Gerson therapy group had significantly fewer patients compared to the conventional treatment groups
  • Single-center study: All Gerson therapy patients were treated at one hospital in Tijuana, Mexico
  • Lack of randomization: Patients were not randomly assigned to treatment groups
  • Potential selection bias: Patients choosing Gerson therapy may have had other factors influencing their outcomes

How do these limitations affect the interpretation of the results?

These factors may impact the generalizability of the findings and the ability to draw definitive conclusions about the efficacy of Gerson therapy compared to conventional treatments. Further research, including larger, randomized controlled trials, would be necessary to confirm these results.

Implications for Future Research and Treatment

The study’s findings raise several important questions for future investigation:

  • Mechanism of action: How does Gerson therapy potentially improve melanoma survival rates?
  • Combination therapies: Could Gerson therapy be integrated with conventional treatments for enhanced outcomes?
  • Long-term effects: What are the potential side effects or health impacts of long-term adherence to Gerson therapy?
  • Applicability to other cancer types: Could Gerson therapy show similar benefits for other forms of cancer?
  • Quality of life: How does Gerson therapy affect patients’ overall well-being and quality of life during treatment?

What are the next steps in evaluating Gerson therapy for melanoma treatment?

To further validate the potential benefits of Gerson therapy for melanoma patients, researchers should consider:

  1. Conducting larger, multi-center randomized controlled trials
  2. Investigating the biological mechanisms behind the observed survival improvements
  3. Exploring potential synergies between Gerson therapy and conventional treatments
  4. Assessing long-term health outcomes and quality of life for patients following Gerson therapy
  5. Studying the applicability of Gerson therapy to other cancer types and stages

The promising results of this retrospective study on Gerson therapy for melanoma treatment warrant further investigation. While the limitations of the study design must be considered, the significantly higher survival rates observed across various stages of melanoma suggest that this dietary approach may have potential as a complementary or alternative treatment option. As research in this area continues, it is essential to maintain a balanced perspective, considering both the potential benefits and limitations of Gerson therapy in the context of comprehensive cancer care.

The field of cancer treatment is constantly evolving, and integrative approaches that combine conventional therapies with evidence-based complementary treatments may hold promise for improving patient outcomes. As more research is conducted on dietary interventions like Gerson therapy, healthcare providers and patients alike will have access to a broader range of informed treatment options.

It is crucial to note that patients considering Gerson therapy or any alternative treatment should consult with their healthcare team to make informed decisions based on their individual circumstances, overall health, and the specific characteristics of their cancer. While the results of this study are encouraging, they should not be interpreted as a recommendation to forgo conventional treatments in favor of Gerson therapy alone.

The potential of dietary interventions in cancer treatment highlights the importance of nutrition in overall health and disease management. As our understanding of the complex relationships between diet, metabolism, and cancer progression grows, it may lead to new avenues for prevention, treatment, and supportive care in oncology.

Ultimately, the goal of cancer research and treatment is to improve patient outcomes, quality of life, and survival rates. Studies like this one on Gerson therapy contribute to the growing body of knowledge that may help achieve these objectives. As the scientific community continues to explore and evaluate alternative and complementary approaches to cancer treatment, patients and healthcare providers alike will benefit from a more comprehensive understanding of the available options and their potential impacts on cancer outcomes.

Five-year survival rates of melanoma patients treated by diet therapy after the manner of Gerson: a retrospective review

Comparative Study

. 1995 Sep;1(4):29-37.

G L Hildenbrand 
1
, L C Hildenbrand, K Bradford, S W Cavin

Affiliations

Affiliation

  • 1 Gerson Research Organization, San Diego, Calif., USA.
  • PMID:

    9359807

Comparative Study

G L Hildenbrand et al.

Altern Ther Health Med.

1995 Sep.

. 1995 Sep;1(4):29-37.

Authors

G L Hildenbrand 
1
, L C Hildenbrand, K Bradford, S W Cavin

Affiliation

  • 1 Gerson Research Organization, San Diego, Calif. , USA.
  • PMID:

    9359807

Abstract


Objective:

Compare 5-year melanoma survival rates to rates in medical literature.


Design:

Retrospective.


Setting:

Hospital in Tijuana, Mexico.


Patients:

White adult patients (N = 153) with superficial spreading and nodular melanoma, aged 25-72 years.


Intervention:

Gerson’s diet therapy: lactovegetarian; low sodium, fat and (temporarily) protein; high potassium, fluid, and nutrients (hourly raw vegetable/fruit juices). Metabolism increased by thyroid; calorie supply limited to 2600-3200 calories per day. Coffee enemas as needed for pain and appetite.


Main outcome measure:

5-year survival rates by stage at admission.


Results:

Of 14 patients with stages I and II (localized) melanoma, 100% survived for 5 years, compared with 79% of 15,798 reported by Balch. Of 17 with stage IIIA (regionally metastasized) melanoma, 82% were alive at 5 years, in contrast to 39% of 103 from Fachklinik Hornheide. Of 33 with combined stages IIIA + IIIB (regionally metastasized) melanoma, 70% lived 5 years, compared with 41% of 134 from Fachklinik Hornheide. We propose a new stage division: IVA (distant lymph, skin, and subcutaneous tissue metastases), and IVB (visceral metastases). Of 18 with stage IVA melanoma, 39% were alive at 5 years, compared with only 6% of 194 from the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group. Survival impact was not assessed for stage IVB. Male and female survival rates were identical for stages I-IIIB, but stage IVA women had a strong survival advantage.


Conclusions:

The 5-year survival rates reported here are considerably higher than those reported elsewhere. Stage IIIA/B males had exceptionally high survival rates compared with those reported by other centers.

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Publication types

MeSH terms

Gerson therapy | Complementary and alternative therapy

Gerson therapy involves a specific organic vegetarian diet with nutritional supplements and enemas. There is no scientific evidence to use it as a treatment for cancer.

Summary

  • Gerson therapy uses a specific organic vegetarian diet, nutritional supplements and enemas to treat cancer
  • There is no scientific evidence that it can treat cancer or its symptoms
  • Gerson therapy can have severe side effects

What is Gerson therapy?

A German doctor called Max Gerson developed Gerson therapy in the 1920s and 30s. He claimed that it helped cure his migraine headaches. So, he went on to use it to treat other diseases such as tuberculosis and cancer.

You might also hear Gerson therapy called the:

  • Gerson diet
  • Gerson regimen
  • Gerson method

Followers believe that changes to diet and nutrient intake can help to treat cancer. They also think that cancer is a symptom of disease of the whole body. 

It aims to rid the body of toxins and strengthen the body’s immune system. This way supporters say it can bring the body back to its normal metabolic state, and the body can heal itself.

The Gerson regime has 3 main parts:

  • a strict organic vegetarian diet made up of fruit and vegetables high in potassium and low in sodium
  • vitamin and mineral supplements, and specific enzymes
  • coffee or castor oil enemas

Gerson therapists believe that people with cancer have too much salt (sodium) in their bodies. This is compared to the amount of potassium.

People following the therapy only eat organic, vegetarian food. This includes up to 13 glasses of fresh juices a day. It is believed that by doing so, it will restore the right balance. And that it will cleanse the liver. 

Up to 5 coffee enemas a day are also given. It is believed that coffee enemas further help to excrete toxins from the liver and colon. And that taking certain supplements and enzymes help the body to get rid of cancer cells.

Scientific research does not support any of these claims.

Why people with cancer use it

They hope it will control or cure their cancer

Your doctor may have told you that conventional treatments cannot cure your cancer. This can be tough to accept.

In this situation, many people look for alternative therapies, including diets such as Gerson. But there is no scientific evidence that the Gerson diet works. It may cause serious health problems and make you feel worse.

The Gerson Research Organisation published a study in 1995. It looked at people with melanoma skin cancer who were doing the Gerson regime. It found that people on the diet had higher survival rates. This was when compared to rates that were published in other scientific studies.  

But a review study in 2014 found that the 1995 research was not accurate. It also did not use a single classification of tumour staging. Tumour staging means the size of a cancer and how far it has spread. The researchers said that they couldn’t say whether the Gerson regime worked.

Gerson therapy is popular with many people who have advanced cancer. But we need more scientific research before it can be used as a treatment for cancer.

Diet may play an essential role in helping to prevent cancer. But there is no current evidence to say that drastic diet changes will kill cancer cells.

Talk to your doctor before making any decisions about following an alternative diet.

To feel more in control

Some people use alternative or complementary therapy to feel more in control of their cancer and its treatment.

To boost the immune system

Some people believe that Gerson therapy boosts their immune system. By doing so, it helps to fight their cancer.

There is no scientific evidence to prove this, partly because of lack of research. We, need more research to have proof. Only then can we say with certainty that Gerson therapy affects the immune system.

How you have it

The Gerson diet is a strict low salt, organic fruit and vegetable diet.

Each day you will need to:

  • drink 20 pounds (about 9 kilos) of crushed fruit and vegetables (one glass of juice hourly, 13 times each day)
  • have up to 5 coffee enemas and perhaps also castor oil enemas
  • take potassium and other supplements, including vitamin B12, pancreatic enzymes and thyroid supplements

You can have Gerson therapy by staying in a clinic, or you can do it yourself at home.

The Gerson Institute refers people to clinics licensed by them. Their most popular one is in Mexico and there is also one in Hungary.

Gerson therapists advertise their clinics as very safe, relaxing and caring. But it is worth finding out if they have the medical facilities needed if any emergencies arise.

People who go to these clinics sometimes say that they feel better psychologically. These places might be very relaxing and caring places to be. But the possible side effects of Gerson therapy are a cause of concern.

You might stay at the clinic for a couple of weeks and then go home to continue the treatment. Or you can order a home therapy deal on the internet.

Treatment can continue for a few months to a few years. Having this therapy at home takes a great deal of time, energy and commitment. It can be almost a full-time job.

Side effects

In some situations, the Gerson diet can cause severe side effects. Some are potentially harmful. Speak to your doctor first if you are thinking of using the Gerson diet.

Coffee enemas remove a lot of potassium from your body and have been known to cause:

  • infections
  • dehydration
  • fits
  • salt and other mineral imbalances in the body
  • heart and lung problems, even death
  • constipation and inflammation of the bowel (colitis) from regular, long term use of enemas which can weaken the bowel muscle

Other reported side effects include:

  • loss of appetite
  • diarrhoea and sickness
  • abdominal cramps
  • aching, fever and sweating
  • cold sores
  • dizziness and weakness

Research into Gerson therapy for cancer

There is no evidence to prove that Gerson therapy works as a cure for cancer. We need more research to compare it with accepted and proven treatments within properly organised clinical trials.

The National Cancer Institute in the USA did a review in 2010. They found no evidence that it helped people with cancer.

Researchers in the UK did a study of 6 patients in 2007. They found that this type of therapy seemed to help people feel better emotionally. It also reduced their need for painkillers. But this number of patients is very small, so these findings are not reliable. The researchers suggested that a clinical trial is necessary. This way it will be possible to see if Gerson therapy works as a cancer treatment.

A review study in 2014 looked at 13 different cancer diets. The researchers looked at all the previous research on Gerson therapy. They found that none of the previous reports on Gerson therapy proved that it was effective.

A study looked at the 5-year survival rate of 153 cancer patients. They found that there were higher survival rates in patients with melanoma, ovarian and colorectal cancer, who were undergoing Gerson therapy. This was compared to patients having other therapies. However, this study was done by the Gerson Research Organisation. The method they used is not reliable and flawed. A further review found the evidence and study unreliable. 

It is difficult to be sure if there is any benefit in using Gerson therapy from the research so far.

This is because:

  • record keeping during studies has been quite poor
  • it is a complex therapy that can go on over months or years
  • we can’t know what other factors might or might not affect the outcome during this time, including the environment or other treatments and diets
  • some promoters give only anecdotal evidence, meaning that they use an example of an occasional person getting better as evidence

How much it costs

Gerson therapy can be costly. Do consider the ongoing cost of the treatment before you start.

You will need to buy special equipment if you are thinking of having Gerson therapy at home. Buying organic fruit, vegetables, coffee and supplements will also be an ongoing cost.

You will have to pay for flights and accommodation if you are going to a special clinic in another country. This will be on top of the treatment. Depending on the treatments involved, the cost can be thousands of pounds.

A word of caution

Some elements of the Gerson diet are healthy. For example, eating low fat food and lots of fresh fruit and vegetables.

But it is not healthy if you are eating vast quantities of one food group in a certain way (juicing) without balancing it with other food groups. It can be harmful to people who are already weak and ill. There are also many possible side effects some of which can be severe.

Most Gerson therapists encourage people not to have chemotherapy while having their therapy. This is because they believe that chemotherapy damages immunity. They say that radiotherapy is more compatible with Gerson treatment.

It is up to you to decide whether you want to use any alternative therapy. Stopping your conventional cancer treatments and methods of symptom control can be harmful.

Talk to your specialist about any alternative or complementary therapies that you want to try. Find out all you can about the therapy before deciding to use it.

Many websites are advertising or promoting Gerson therapy. But reputable scientific cancer organisations do not support them. Do not believe information or pay for alternative cancer therapy over the internet.

  • Gerson regimen

    B Cassileth

    Oncology (Williston Park). February, 2010. Vol 24, (2):201.

  • Surviving Against All Odds: Analysis of 6 Case Studies of Patients With Cancer Who Followed the Gerson Therapy

    A Molassiotis and others

    Integrative Cancer Therapies, March, 2007. Vol 6, (1), 80-88.  

  • Counseling patients on cancer diets: a review of the literature and recommendations for clinical practice.

    J Huebner and others

    Anticancer Research. 2014 January; 34(1):39-48.

  • The information on this page is based on literature searches and specialist checking. We used many references and there are too many to list here. If you need additional references for this information please contact [email protected] with details of the particular issue you are interested in.

Last reviewed: 

11 Oct 2022

Next review due: 

11 Oct 2025