The Federal Trade Commission sued five companies for making false and misleading claims for cancer cures. At the same time, the agency said it has reached settlements with six others.

The five companies sued by the FTC include Alexander Heckman d/b/a Omega Supply; Native Essence Herb Company; Daniel Chapter One; Gemtronics Inc.; and Mary T. Spohn a/b/a Herbs for Cancer.

“There is no credible scientific evidence that any of the products marketed by these companies can prevent, cure, or treat cancer of any kind,” Lydia Parnes, director of the FTC’s bureau of consumer protection, said.

There are many patients suffering from various forms of cancer who believe in alternative treatments with herbs or teas or other products, especially that they are highly promoted on the Internet. On the other hand, the Food and Drug Administration officials fear that these patients might skip effective cancer treatments when choosing these products.

For this particular reason, the FDA, along with the FTC and Canadian authorities are launching a consumer education campaign warning about bogus claims for cures. The companies will have to tell their consumers there is no guarantee they will be cured with these products. More than that, they will have to urge consumers to consult with their doctors about the products.

“Let’s face it, when you’re battling cancer, the last thing you need is a scam. The best thing is to talk to your doctor about any treatment that you are thinking about taking,” Parnes said.

The FTC also created a special Web site, www.ftc.gov/curious, where consumers can report questionable cancer cures or therapies they discover online.