A recent exchange on social media has ignited a debate about the risks and responsibilities associated with celebrities promoting alternative medical treatments. Indian badminton champion Jwala Gutta ignited the controversy by questioning actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s endorsement of nebulized hydrogen peroxide for viral infections.
Gutta, concerned about the potential for harm to Prabhu’s vast following, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express her reservations. Her tweet highlighted the potential legal and ethical ramifications of promoting such treatments, particularly if they resulted in adverse health outcomes. She pointedly asked, “Will you [Prabhu] be taking responsibility too? Will the doctor who you have tagged also take the responsibility?”
This challenge stemmed from Prabhu’s public recommendation of nebulized hydrogen peroxide, a practice lacking scientific backing and potentially hazardous. The Liver Doc, a prominent hepatologist known as Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, swiftly responded by criticizing Prabhu’s promotion, labeling it as “health misinformation.” He further suggested that such actions could have legal repercussions in a “rational and progressive society.”
Prabhu defended her position, emphasizing that her endorsement was based on personal experience and perceived benefits. However, she acknowledged the need for prudence when offering medical advice on public platforms. The situation escalated further when other celebrities weighed in. Actors Varun Dhawan, Rhea Chakraborty, and Manchu Lakshmi voiced support for Prabhu, while musician Ricky Kej, while aligning with The Liver Doc’s concerns, disapproved of his combative approach.
This social media skirmish underscores the complexities surrounding celebrity endorsements of alternative medicine. While celebrities often have a significant influence on public opinion, their expertise typically lies outside the medical field. Gutta’s intervention highlights the potential dangers of such endorsements, particularly when they lack scientific validation. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking qualified medical advice before adopting alternative treatments.
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