A Free Public Service

SCAMS BULLETIN Host Jay White is an inactive attorney in San Mateo County, California.

March 18, 2023

FALSE HEALTH CLAIMS

Attribution: US Federal Trade Commission

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction or dealing with a serious disease like cancer, Parkinson’s, or Alzheimer’s, you have probably looked for the best treatment available. But how do you know if promises about treatments and recovery are true?

Some alleged health care providers say they will cure all kinds of diseases and addictions — without reliable scientific proof.

Misleading ads promise a painless recovery from a variety of addictions — from drugs and alcohol to food and gambling. For cancer patients, they promise that most patients would get back to work and regular social activities, even becoming cancer-free after visiting a clinic.

Before you say yes to any kind of specialized medical treatment:

*Talk to your doctor or healthcare professional.

*Search for the name of the treatment or product online, plus the words “review,” “complaint,” or “scam.” See what others are saying.

*Know that no government agency approves ads about medical treatments before they go public.

Read more about common health scams. And if you think a company is making false health claims, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

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