7
up, he could have been on the telephone-all in addition to suggesting that the
siren might not have been turned on.
In testing DMSO, the FDA requires proof of no side effects, no danger. Scientists
bring up their most compelling evidence; the best science has to offer. Their data
shows DMSO to have only the most mild topical, secondary effects, spread over
thousands of cases and in many different applications. But the FDA does not move.
I have been told that they are satisfied that it works, that the side effects are
acceptable, but that they do not know how it works-how it does what it does. If we
held Aspirin to the same standard, it most certainly would not be freely available
on today's market.
In daily life we all take many risks of varying degrees. It is time for the Food and
Drug Administration to lift their standard of absolute proof and allow DMSO, a
cheap, effective and safe drug to bring relief to those suffering the nagging, crip-
pling ache of arthritis.
It is my pleasure this morning to introduce Dr. Stanley Jacob of the University of
Oregon Health Sciences Center. Dr. Jacob, as you all know, is a nationally known
surgeon who has spent most of the last 18 years experimenting with DMSO and
studying its effects in many treatment protocols. Dr. Jacob's academic and profes-
sional credentials are impeccable. But more important are the energy and commit-
ment he brings to his drive to have DMSO scientifically tested, proven and market-
ed so that its great therapeutic value is available to help those who need relief from
the debilitating symptoms of disease. I only wish we had Stan working on the drive
to balance the budget; I am certain that we could alleviate the dreadful symptoms
the economy now suffers were he to focus his energies and train his intelligence,
energy and ability on financial matters.
The CHAIRMAN. I just want to ask you two questions, Mr.
Duncan.
First, did you ever use the drug with respect to arthritis? Do you
happen to have any arthritis?
Mr. DUNCAN. No, sir, I do not have arthritis. But I still fancy
myself something of an athlete so I am faced with a constant series
of strains and bruises. Bursitis is the common predicament as one
gets advanced in years and still tries to pretend he is a kid. The
results are dramatic.
The CHAIRMAN. The second question is, just for the record and
for background for us, you have known Dr. Jacob for a long time
evidently?
Mr. DUNCAN. I would guess about 16 years, yes, sir.
The CHAIRMAN. You know him to be a qualified physician and in
good repute in the community in which he lives?
Mr. DUNCAN. I had thought those things were almost unneces-
sary to say. Yes, I certainly do. He is a fine physician, a surgeon.
He is a respected member of the faculty of the University of
Oregon Medical School. For 16 years he has tried diligently to
advance the cause of this drug in which he believes so thoroughly,
and because the scientific tests that he has performed have proven
to him beyond a doubt that it is safe and efficacious, he has tried to
follow the usual protocols of obtaining approval of this drug.
There may indeed be some of his colleagues who would object to
his appearing on a television show last night. But at some point
people have to do something to break up a logjam of lethargy and
disinterest and get something going.
The CHAIRMAN. Mr. Bonker, do you have any questions to ask
Representative Duncan?
Mr. BONKER. Mr. Chairman, I have an opening statement I
would like to submit for the record and I apologize for being late.
The CHAIRMAN. Without objection your statement will be re-
ceived.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Bonker follows:]
