In a shocking case that has sparked outrage, a self-proclaimed "tumour research institute" in China is now under investigation after a woman revealed how her cancer-stricken mother fell victim to a fake doctor and was deceived into paying a staggering 200,000 yuan (approximately Rs 22.76 lakh) for questionable treatments, including bloodletting and the application of cement to her skin. The incident has raised serious concerns about the spread of fraudulent medical practices in the country.

According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the woman, identified only as Ms. Wang, recently discovered that her mother had been diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer. Desperate for a potential cure, they were introduced to a traditional Chinese medicine doctor named Mr. Yu, who claimed to specialize in cancer treatments. The pair traveled to Wuhan to meet him at his Dongyusanbao Tumour Research Institute, where he presented them with what appeared to be credible patent documents and prestigious awards certificates for his alleged cancer treatment.

Filled with hope, Ms. Wang's mother immediately purchased the first batch of liquid medication from Mr. Yu for 20,000 yuan (US$2,700). However, over the next year, the financial burden became overwhelming as the pair had to make multiple journeys from their home in northeastern Liaoning province to Wuhan, with the total expenditure eventually exceeding 200,000 yuan.

The situation took an even darker turn when it was revealed that Mr. Yu had been administering bizarre and dangerous treatments. In addition to the oral medication, he performed numerous injections into the elderly woman's breasts, claiming it would help eliminate cancer cells. Shockingly, he also instructed Ms. Wang's mother to apply a mixture of cement and lime to her armpits, falsely claiming it would shrink the cancerous lumps.

Ms. Wang shared her mother's experience, stating, "He told my mother to apply cement mixed with lime on the skin under her armpits, saying this could help shrink lumps. My mother followed his instructions, but her skin festered after doing it for two months."

The deceptive practices conducted by Mr. Yu have now prompted authorities to launch a thorough investigation into the activities of the so-called tumour research institute. It remains unclear how many other individuals may have fallen victim to this sham treatment and suffered physical and financial harm.

This disturbing case highlights the urgent need for stricter regulation and oversight within the medical field to prevent unsuspecting patients from being exploited by unscrupulous individuals posing as doctors. The authorities must take swift and decisive action to bring justice to those affected and ensure that such fraudulent practices are eradicated, safeguarding the health and well-being of the public.