World Health Day 2026: Doctor Warns Against ‘Social Media Treatment,’ Urges Public to Trust Medical Science
Dr. D. Ravi Shekhar Reddy, Head of Department and Senior Consultant Physician & Diabetologist at KIMS Hospitals, Kondapur, said that an increasing number of patients are arriving at hospitals after attempting self-treatment based on information from platforms such as YouTube, Google, Facebook, and Instagram.
Hyderabad: On the occasion of World Health Day, medical experts have cautioned people against relying on health advice from social media platforms, stressing the importance of scientific treatment and timely consultation with qualified doctors.
Dr. D. Ravi Shekhar Reddy, Head of Department and Senior Consultant Physician & Diabetologist at KIMS Hospitals, Kondapur, said that an increasing number of patients are arriving at hospitals after attempting self-treatment based on information from platforms such as YouTube, Google, Facebook, and Instagram. By the time they seek professional help, their conditions often worsen, making treatment more difficult.
World Health Day, observed annually on April 7, aims to raise awareness about global health issues. This year’s theme, “Together for Health – Stand with Science,” highlights the need for collective efforts and reliance on scientific knowledge to improve health outcomes.
Dr. Reddy noted that changing lifestyles, unhealthy eating habits, work stress, and lack of physical activity have contributed to a surge in lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. He warned that India is increasingly emerging as a global hub for diabetes, with younger populations also being affected by serious conditions, including heart disease and even cancer.
He emphasized that misinformation on social media is spreading rapidly, leading many people to follow unverified remedies instead of seeking proper medical care. “Medications should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision. Ignoring professional advice and depending on online content can lead to serious complications,” he said.
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The doctor urged people to adopt healthy habits, including engaging in at least 30 minutes of daily exercise, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins, and ensuring adequate sleep of 7–8 hours. Stress management through yoga and meditation, along with regular full-body health check-ups and timely vaccinations, were also highlighted as essential measures.
He also addressed the common hesitation among patients to undergo diagnostic tests. Many avoid tests due to fear or the belief that their condition will improve on its own. However, he stressed that early detection is crucial for effective treatment of diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
Dr. Reddy further advised people to make smarter dietary choices, reduce intake of sugar and processed foods, drink sufficient water, and maintain good hygiene practices. He also highlighted the importance of mental well-being, encouraging individuals to seek support during stressful times and maintain strong social connections.
Reiterating the message of World Health Day, he said, “Avoid social media treatment. Trust science, follow medical advice, and prioritise your health.”
