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| - Last Updated on January 27, 2025 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A harmful claim circulating on social media suggests that doctors can only manage diseases and not cure them. We did the fact check and termed this claim as false.
The Claim
A post on Threads asserts that “your doctor can’t heal you” and that their training focuses solely on “managing disease,” not curing it. This dangerous claim implies that herbal remedies offer a superior alternative to modern medical care.
Fact Check
Do doctors truly only focus on managing diseases?
Absolutely not. Doctors receive rigorous training to both cure and manage illnesses.
- Curing illnesses: Many diseases are entirely curable. For instance, bacterial infections like pneumonia can be effectively treated with antibiotics, while surgical procedures can successfully address conditions like appendicitis.
- Managing chronic conditions: For diseases where a complete cure is not yet possible, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, doctors focus on effective management strategies. This involves carefully monitoring the condition, controlling symptoms, and preventing potential complications to ensure the patient’s best possible quality of life.
For expert advice, we spoke with Dr Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, and General Physician from Navi Mumbai. She says, “Doctors do much more than manage diseases. We focus on preventing illnesses, identifying health risks early, and guiding patients toward healthier lifestyles. By promoting overall well-being and offering personalised advice, our aim is to help people stay healthy, not just treat them when they’re unwell.”
Is managing a disease somehow “lesser” than curing it?
Not at all. For chronic conditions like asthma, arthritis, or HIV/AIDS, effective management is crucial. While a cure may not be currently available, skilled management allows individuals to live full, healthy, and productive lives. This involves carefully controlling symptoms, preventing complications, and maximising overall well-being.
We reached out to Dr Anusha Dewan, Practising General Physician and Public Health Consultant, Jeevan Anmol Hospital, New Delhi, to learn about disease management and cure. She says, “Managing a disease is not ‘lesser’ than curing it. Both are vital aspects of healthcare. While a cure eliminates the condition, effective management improves quality of life, prevents complications, and helps patients live healthier, fuller lives.”
Can herbal remedies truly replace modern medical treatments?
No, this is a dangerous misconception.
- Limited scientific evidence: While some herbs may offer certain health benefits, the vast majority lack the rigorous scientific testing necessary to prove their safety and effectiveness.
- Potential risks: Using unproven herbal treatments, especially for serious conditions like cancer or heart disease, can be extremely risky. These remedies may have unintended side effects or interact harmfully with prescribed medications.
- The power of evidence-based medicine: Modern medicine relies on extensive research, rigorous clinical trials, and a deep understanding of the human body to develop safe and effective treatments.
Similarly, some recommend natural ingredients over lab-formulated skincare, but this can be misleading. Because lab products are scientifically designed for safety and effectiveness.
Why do some people believe in natural cures over proven medicine?
Several factors contribute to this belief:
- Mistrust: Some individuals may hold on to mistrust in conventional medicine due to various reasons, including past negative experiences or a lack of understanding of complex medical concepts.
- Cultural beliefs: Traditional cultural practices and beliefs often emphasise the use of natural remedies.
- The spread of misinformation: Misleading claims about the effectiveness of “natural cures” can easily spread through social media and other channels, creating confusion and fear.
Similarly, we have debunked claims about simple home remedies to curb sugar cravings. Cravings can often indicate underlying nutrient deficiencies or health conditions that require proper attention. Relying on such remedies may delay appropriate care and lead to negative health outcomes, making these claims misleading.
Do doctors ignore holistic approaches to patient care?
Absolutely not. Many doctors now incorporate holistic approaches into their practice.
- Lifestyle modifications: Doctors frequently recommend lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques to complement medical treatments.
- Integrative medicine: Some medical professionals practice integrative medicine, which combines conventional treatments with complementary therapies like acupuncture or massage therapy when appropriate.
However, it’s crucial to emphasise that these holistic approaches are always evidence-based and never a substitute for proven medical treatments.
THIP Media Take
The claim that doctors only manage diseases and cannot cure them is false and harmful. Doctors are dedicated to providing the best possible care to their patients, which may involve both curing diseases when possible and effectively managing chronic conditions. Modern medicine prioritises evidence-based approaches and patient safety, while the efficacy and safety of many “natural” remedies remain largely unproven.
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