Police received a complaint that a mother was giving her autistic son doses of an industrial product called “Miracle Mineral Solution,” or MMS. MMS contains two chemicals, sodium chlorite and hydrochloric acid. When combined they form a type of bleach.
As well as autism, MMS has been advertised to cure Alzheimer’s, cancer, HIV, and malaria. The main proponent of ingesting the bleach is an organization called the Genesis II Church of Health and Healing, based out of the United States. It describes itself as a “non religious church…bringing health to the world.” It also charges $35 per adult to become a member.
Experts say MMS doesn’t provide any positive health benefits. The United Kingdom’s Food and Standards Agency has warned it can cause severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and even death.
Use of MMS has been linked to one death. Several people were reported to be seriously injured by the bleach. It has been banned in Canada. The US Food and Drug Administration warns that the product is an industrial bleach that can cause serious harm.
One American, Louis Daniel Smith, was sent to prison for four years for selling MMS. Prosecutors allege he sold dangerous chemical as miracle cures to sick people and their loved ones.
Autism is a complex neurological condition that is usually diagnosed in early childhood. It’s mostly characterized by difficulties in communication and social relationships. Individuals on the autism spectrum range from mild to severe. Many people are able to lead productive lives and excel in various careers and hobbies. Currently, it’s estimated the prevalence of autism in the United States is one in 68 people. About one percent of the world’s population is estimated to have autism spectrum disorder.
