This medical device may cause serious health risks and even death, Health Canada warns – CTV
June 17, 2026
Soft-shelled hyperbaric chambers may spread infectious diseases, suffocate users and even cause death, Health Canada warns in a new public advisory. The federal department said people should not use the devices, though the hard-shelled version has proven benefits.
Soft-shelled hyperbaric chambers are portable chambers with zippers, according to the website of the National Hyperbaric Treatment Centre in Palm Harbor, Fla. They were originally designed for divers and mountain climbers to help with fatigue and other health issues related to their activities, the centre stated.
However, the soft-shelled version of the medical devices is increasingly popping up in wellness centres and may be advertised as treatment for various medical conditions, such as migraines, autism and cerebral palsy, Health Canada said.
“These devices are unlicensed, may be ineffective for the purposes for which they are advertised and may pose serious health risks for users and those in close proximity, including death,” according to Health Canada in the notice published Tuesday.
