Agent Orange victims in Vietnam to get Scientology 'detox' treatment

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/sep/06/agent-orange-vietnam-scientology-detox


A warning sign stands in a Vietnam field contaminated with dioxin, which has been linked to birth defects. Photograph: Maika Elan/AP

Alleged victims of Agent Orange in Vietnam are set to receive a controversial "detoxification" treatment developed by the Church of Scientology.

Scientologists use the "Hubbard Method" – which involves saunas and vitamins – to try to cure drug addiction and alcoholism. The church set up a centre in New York after the 9/11 attacks offering a similar service for people who may have been exposed to toxins.

Many researchers have criticised this method as pseudoscientific and useless.

State-controlled media said 24 people were at a Hanoi hospital on Thursday waiting for the programme.