Trump Soda Cancer Claim Disputed by Thai Academic

A Thai academic has publicly rejected a claim attributed to US President Donald Trump that diet soft drinks can kill cancer cells, warning there is no scientific evidence to support the idea. On 20 April 2026, Dr Jessada Denduangboripant, a biology lecturer at Chulalongkorn University, shared a fact-check post addressing the claim and urging the public not to believe it.

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The claim emerged from foreign media reports citing Mehmet Oz, director of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and an ally of Trump. Oz said on the podcast “Triggered with Don Jr.”, hosted by Donald John Trump Jr., that Trump had previously suggested diet soft drinks could “kill grass” and therefore might also kill cancer cells in the human body.

Dr Jessada responded by describing the claim as incorrect and unsupported by scientific research. In his post, he noted that medical professionals, scientists, experts, and public health agencies have all rejected the idea, emphasising that no credible evidence exists to show diet soft drinks can treat or kill cancer cells.

He also referenced previous controversial health-related statements attributed to Trump, including claims that sunlight could kill COVID-19, that disinfectant injections might treat the virus and that pregnant women should avoid paracetamol due to alleged links to autism. Dr Jessada characterised these remarks as examples of misinformation and stressed the importance of relying on verified scientific data.

Experts cited in the wider response to the claim have similarly warned that such statements could mislead the public and create false hope regarding serious illnesses like cancer. Health authorities continue to emphasise that cancer treatment requires evidence-based medical care, not unproven or anecdotal remedies.

Naewna reported that the issue highlights ongoing concerns about the spread of health misinformation, particularly when amplified by public figures. Medical professionals are expected to continue reinforcing accurate guidance and encouraging the public to consult qualified healthcare providers for treatment decisions.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Naewna 21 Apr 2026