Italian doctor touts unproven MS treatment; society wants more studies

OTTAWA – An Italian doctor pioneering an unproven treatment for multiple sclerosis says it’s “not responsible” to deny Canadian patients access to the procedure. Dr. Paolo Zamboni told MPs the controversial procedure has so far shown promising results. Zamboni’s research suggests MS patients have blocked neck veins that may be linked to the disease. He contends a build up of iron in the brain because blood isn’t draining properly triggers MS – and that patients’ symptoms can be alleviated by opening up the veins to restore blood flow. The MS Society of Canada wants more evidence before backing Zamboni’s procedure and the group and its American counterpart granted $2.4 million in research funds last week. But Zamboni and other doctors who appeared before a House of Commons committee say Canada needs to begin clinical trials as soon as possible.

(c) 2010 The Canadian Press

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