Medical Fraud For years medical quacks have sold powders, pills, lotions, and other gimmicks through the mail to people seeking cures for baldness, obesity, or sexual dysfunction. Tremendous medical advances have made the successful treatment of such conditions a reality. Despite legitimate medical breakthroughs, snake-oil merchants continue to peddle worthless potions, offering “miracles” like: Instant cure for arthritis! Lose weight overnight! Look years younger! The gadgets and gimmicks advertised are not tested by competent medical authorities, and some are downright dangerous, so: Don’t trust your health to a salesperson. Don’t believe claims of a secret cure or miracle drug. (Such advances make big news worldwide.) Be suspicious of claims of excessive weight loss. Don’t believe exaggerated claims of regained youth or the perfect figure. Protect your health and your pocketbook. Before purchasing any cure-alls, consult your family physician.