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August 21, 2016 02:17
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BBC complaint response
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| Dear Mr Betts | |
| Many thanks for getting in touch with us about Vanessa Feltz's programme, 10 August 2016. | |
| Sorry to learn you were unhappy with the item on so-called cupping therapy. | |
| We gave accounts from practitioners, athletes and sceptics (who said it was as beneficial as "having leeches applied to your skin") - we sought input from the listeners in case it hadn't worked for them. Charlie from Southampton spoke clearly about it being 'pure nonsense' and questioning where the toxins go in the cups. Adam also took part in the show, challenging the claims made by the practitioner and referring to it as 'quackery' questioning where the "evidence of any scientific plausibility" was. Also it was clear from Peter's account that his previous persistent pain hadn't been resolved by his previous cupping treatment at all. Individual experiences were heard of, but we didn't draw any universal conclusions from them. | |
| The practice has attracted much attention and the piece sought to explain simply what it involves. It wasn't an attempt to clinically weigh up the evidence for and against the practice, rather it aimed to explain what it involves. However, Vanessa still highlighted how toxins are actually eliminated by the body, challenging the claims of the theory associated with the practice. | |
| The level of depth we can go into and range of viewpoints considered can vary depending on the point of the piece and the audience's expectations. If the topic had been covered in something like 'Trust Me I'm A Doctor' instead, than a different approach would be taken. It depends on the setting and what the aim of the piece is - here it's to remove some of the mystery, not to analyse it scientifically. Elsewhere on our coverage we've shown the view that there is 'no evidence for its efficacy' and it has "not been submitted to clinical trials." | |
| Yusuf explained how Peter had completed medical forms before receiving the practice and that it wouldn't be suitable for certain conditions - so the point of considering medical advice was raised here. Peter's treatment was not invasive - he chose the 'dry' cupping, which did not involve breaking of the skin - it was a topical treatment. | |
| We wouldn't encourage listeners to simply adopt any lifestyle practice without appropriate guidance, as people's individual circumstances vary so widely. Your points have been made known to the programme team. | |
| Thanks again for getting in touch. | |
| Kind regards | |
| ... |
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