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The Department of Health today (February 8) cautioned against products containing parasites for weight control as they were harmful to health.
The appeal followed a report received about promotion of such a product on a commercial website.
A department spokesman said infestation of parasites, such as Ascaris, as slimming means had no scientific basis. On the contrary, it could cause abdominal pain and distention, vomiting, diarrhoea and malnutrition.
"Parasite infestation may also be fatal if serious complications such as intestinal, biliary tract or pancreatic duct obstruction arise. The worms may even invade such organs as the lungs.
"The infestation can be treated with medication that kills the parasite. The worms may require surgical removal if there are obstructions," the spokesman said.
The spokesman reiterated that the only natural, healthy and effective means of weight control was through dietary regulation and regular exercise.
He urged people to consult their family doctors before taking drugs for weight control.
Ends/Monday, February 8, 2010
Issued at HKT 16:30
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