It’s natural to wish for an easy solution for difficult health problems, but navigating these challenges is rarely simple. Unfortunately, deceptive marketing can make health fraud scams very tempting.
If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is. In this article, we’ll discuss what to look for so you can avoid health fraud scams.
What is a Fraudulent Health Product?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says that a health item is fraudulent if it’s being deceptively promoted as being effective against a disease or health condition without having been scientifically proven safe and effective for that purpose.
Scammers use a variety of tactics to promote their products. Exercise caution when buying health care products. Keep reading to learn about common health fraud scams you should be aware of.
Identifying Health Fraud Scams
Products that claim to cure a wide range of problems are fake. Miracle cures that can do it all don’t exist. Look out for products advertising quick fixes such as the ability to “lose 15 pounds in 15 days.” Again, if it seems too good to be true…it probably is!
Be suspicious of products that only include personal testimonials/success stories. It’s all too easy to fabricate these, and online reviews found on marketplaces and social media can be fake. Look for scientific evidence and talk to your doctor if you’re unsure whether a product is legitimate.
Phrases such as “all natural cure” are often used to grab your attention by suggesting that a product is safer than other treatments. Unfortunately, the FDA has found numerous products promoted in this manner that contain hidden and dangerously high doses of active pharmaceutical ingredients.
“Miracle cure” and “guaranteed results” are other phrases that should set off alarm bells. If a real cure for a serious disease was approved by the FDA, it would be widely reported and prescribed by medical providers.
Fraudulent medical products can be dangerous, causing serious injury or even death. These health fraud scams aren’t just a waste of money. Sometimes they contain ingredients that can be harmful to consumers. They can also be manufactured by unregistered facilities under unknown conditions, which could lead to unclean or dangerous products. Trying to find a “miracle cure” can also prevent or delay a diagnosis that allows you to get proven treatments.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.