How to Spot False Claims
When evaluating health-related claims, be skeptical. If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Here are some signs of a fraudulent claim:
- Statements that the product is a quick and effective cure-all or diagnostic tool for a wide variety of ailments. For example: "Extremely beneficial in the treatment of rheumatism, arthritis, infections, prostate problems, ulcers, cancer, heart trouble, hardening of the arteries and more."
- Statements that suggest the product can treat or cure diseases. For example: "shrinks tumors" or "cures impotency."
- Promotions that use words like "scientific breakthrough," "miraculous cure," "exclusive product," "secret ingredient" or "ancient remedy." For example: "A revolutionary innovation formulated by using proven principles of natural health-based medical science."
- Text that uses impressive-sounding terms like these for a weight-loss product: "hunger stimulation point" and "thermogenesis."
- Undocumented case histories or personal testimonials by consumers or doctors claiming amazing results. For example: "My husband has Alzheimer's disease. He began eating a teaspoonful of this product each day. And now in just 22 days he mowed the grass, cleaned out the garage, weeded the flower beds and we take our morning walk again."
- Limited availability and advance payment requirements. For example: "Hurry. This offer will not last. Send us a check now to reserve your supply."
- Promises of no-risk "money-back guarantees." For example: "If after 30 days you have not lost at least 4 pounds each week, your uncashed check will be returned to you."
Avoiding Unscrupulous Dealers
It's easy to see why some people can be taken in by promoters' promises, especially when successful treatments have been elusive. But resist pressure to decide "on the spot" about trying an untested product or treatment. Ask for more information and consult a knowledgeable doctor, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. Promoters of legitimate healthcare products do not object to your seeking additional information.
To learn whether the FDA or the FTC have taken action against the promoter of a product you may be considering, visit www.fda.gov/oc/enforcement.html or http://www.ftc.gov/. Visit www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/ds-warn.html for a list of the dietary supplement ingredients for which the FDA has issued warnings.
In addition, if you're considering a clinic that requires you to travel and stay far from home for treatment, check it out with your doctor. Although some clinics offer effective treatments, others prescribe untested, unapproved, ineffective, and possibly dangerous "cures." In addition, the healthcare providers who work in these clinics may be unlicensed or lack other appropriate credentials.
For information about a particular hospital, clinic or treatment center, contact the state or local health authorities where the facility is located. If the facility is in a foreign country, contact that government's health authority to see that the facility is properly licensed and equipped to handle the procedures involved. For information about facilities in Mexico, contact the Secretary of Health (Secretaria De Salud) in the Mexican state where the facility is located.
Online resources
Operation Cure-All
Offers tips on avoiding health fraud online.
Dietary Supplements
Offers an overview of dietary supplement regulation, including safety and
warning information.
Buying Medicines and Medical Products Online
Offers tips and precautions for buying medical products online.
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