The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has filed proceedings in the Federal Court of Australia against several NuEra companies* for alleged misleading and deceptive conduct in respect of cancer cure claims promoted under The RANA System.
The proceedings also involve Mr Paul John Rana, his sons Mr Christopher James Rana and Mr Micheal (correct) Lee Rana. It is alleged the Ranas were involved in the alleged contravening conduct by the companies.
The RANA System is described as "..an alternative approach to cancer care which offers HOPE to cancer sufferers". The RANA System is provided through programs costing up to $35,000. The RANA System offers a variety of products and services including, vitamin and mineral supplements, laetrile (also known as vitamin B 17), Cesium or high PH therapy, devices called parasite/energy zappers, Zen Chi Massages Magnetic Pulsers, coffee enemas, ozone therapy, diets described as eating according to blood type, live blood analysis and thermal imaging.
The ACCC alleges the NuEra companies largely through the agency of Mr Paul Rana and with the assistance of his sons have engaged in conduct in breach of the Trade Practices Act 1974 by representing to persons suffering terminal illnesses (including cancer) and to their families that The RANA System can cure cancer, or reverse, stop or slow its progress or will prolong the life of a person suffering cancer, when this is not the case. A further representation of concern is that The RANA System is asserted to be based on generally accepted science; the ACCC alleges this is not the case.
The ACCC is seeking declarations and injunctions, including an interim injunction restraining the companies and individuals from engaging in the alleged offending conduct. A mandatory injunction is also sought requiring the parties to remove from any relevant websites any representations to the effect that:
- The RANA System can cure cancer, or reverse, stop or slow its progress
- will prolong the life of a person suffering cancer, and
- is supported by generally accepted science.
The filing of proceedings follows a joint investigation by the ACCC and Consumer Affairs Victoria into the promotion of The RANA System by the NuEra companies and the Ranas.
The notice of motion is returnable before Justice Heerey at 2.15pm tomorrow (Tuesday 28 November 2006) in Melbourne.
*NuEra Health Pty Ltd (In Liquidation), NuEra Care Centre Pty Ltd, Alternative Care Facility Pty Ltd, NuEra Investments Pty Ltd and NuEra Wellness Centre Pty Ltd.