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CIA Saw Soviet Cancer-Parasite Link 60 Years Ago
9 Mar
Summary
- CIA reviewed Soviet research from 1950 on cancer and parasite similarities.
- The research suggested certain chemical compounds targeted both types of organisms.
- Outrage arose as the intelligence document sat in archives for decades.

A declassified CIA document from February 1951 details Soviet scientific research that identified striking biochemical similarities between parasitic worms and cancerous tumors. Researchers noted that both organisms thrived under similar metabolic conditions, accumulating glycogen reserves and utilizing anaerobic metabolism.
This Soviet study, summarized by the CIA, also highlighted experimental drugs that appeared to affect both parasites and tumors. One compound, Myracyl D, reportedly showed effectiveness against bilharzia parasites and malignant growths, suggesting a potential avenue for cancer treatment.
The document's existence, declassified in 2014 but recently recirculated, has ignited public anger. Critics question why intelligence archives held this research, which hinted at possible cancer treatments, for over six decades. The CIA has been contacted for comment regarding the document's classification and declassification history.



