People selling unproven health remedies and miracles cures have been around for many years.  Today they have more ways to do it, including the Internet and email.

Older people and people with chronic illnesses or pain are often the target for health scams.  According to a government study, most of the victims of health care fraud are over age 65.

When it comes to spotting a health scam, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  Here are some red flags to look for in ads or promotional materials that a health-care product is worthless:

• Promises a quick or painless cure,
• Claims to be made from a special, secret or ancient formula—often available only by mail or from one sponsor,
• Uses testimonials or undocumented case histories from satisfied users,
• Claims to be effective for a wide range of ailments,
• Claims to cure a disease (such as arthritis or cancer) that is not yet understood by medical science,
• Offers an additional “free” gift or larger amount of the product as a special promotion,
• Requires payment in advance and claims limited availability of the product. 

Be wary. Find out more about a product before you buy it. Don’t let a sales person pressure you into making a quick decision.  Unproven remedies may be a waste of your money and may even be harmful. 

If you have questions about a health-care product, talk to your doctor. 

Source: “Health Quackery: Spotting Health Scams,” National Institute on Aging.