Caution issued by diabetes specialists regarding purported online magic remedies for diabetes
In recent times, the online market for diabetes management products has seen an increase in questionable offers. The Deutsche Diabetes Gesellschaft (DDG), diabetesDE – Deutsche Diabetes-Hilfe, the Bundesverband Niedergelassener Diabetologen e.V. (BVND), and the Verband der Diabetes-Beratungs- und Schulungsberufe in Deutschland e.V. (VDBD) have jointly issued a warning against such fraudulent advertising practices.
These practices often involve miraculous claims, such as microneedle patches for blood sugar regulation and non-invasive blood glucose meters. Deepfake advertising videos, featuring celebrities endorsing products they never actually supported, are also common. It's important to note that these celebrities are often used without their consent.
Websites masquerading as legitimate organizations like the DDG or Diabetes Hilfe are also a concern. Fake logos, no return address, and non-compliant imprints are common features of these fraudulent sites.
Patients are investing a significant amount of time in practices for correcting misinformation instead of addressing their health concerns. Many affected people receive no delivery or inferior devices, such as simple pulse oximeters without diabetic utility, after ordering products. A refund or complaint is usually not possible with these fraudulent offers.
The DDG, as a medical-scientific professional society, does not sell or recommend products. Similarly, medical professional societies do not engage in such practices. The Federal Association of Outpatient Diabetologists (BVND) has reported an increase in patients turning to doctors with questions about online products.
If products promise a quick, easy cure or effect without side effects, such as "natural alternatives" or methods like microneedle patches, one should be suspicious. These products are often associated with unlicensed or unproven providers. Providers of fraudulent offers often act anonymously from abroad, without an imprint or return address.
To avoid falling victim to these fraudulent offers, it's recommended to refrain from purchasing products without a visible imprint, return address, or contact option. By exercising caution and verifying the legitimacy of offers, patients can protect themselves and focus on managing their diabetes effectively.
