The Cardiovascular Scamdemic: The Epidemic Spread of Cardiovascular Treatment Scams and Misinformation

Abstract

Recently, some cardiovascular surgeons have been increasingly using social media for marketing, often employing misleading terminology. This trend, which we termed the "cardiovascular scamdemic," involves the widespread dissemination of deceptive advertisements for cardiovascular treatments, resembling an epidemic. Exposure to such misinformation not only endangers patients, who naturally rely on information from professional sources, but also erodes public trust in medical ethics and scientific integrity. Additionally, it contributes to treatment refusal and adverse health outcomes. The lack of comprehensive global regulations addressing these issues highlights the urgent need for more effective enforcement measures.