Greek Medical Association Demands Crackdown on Bogus Treatments After Mazonakis Death

The Panhellenic Medical Association (PIS) has called for tougher enforcement against misleading medical advertising following the death of beloved Greek singer Giorgos Mazonakis.

In a letter to Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis, the PIS urged the Health Ministry to strengthen oversight of medical procedures, treatments and health services promoted to the public, particularly through the internet and social media.

The association warned against healthcare businesses promoting treatments that promise miraculous results, guaranteed cures or the reversal of ageing without scientific evidence.

“It is unacceptable to allow medical practices, companies, diagnostic centres, aesthetic medicine clinics or other healthcare related businesses to promote, in violation of the law and medical ethics, allegedly miraculous treatments, non existent scientific results, guaranteed cures or promises of rejuvenation and the reversal of the natural ageing process,” the PIS said.

The medical association called on Georgiadis to activate the ministry’s available oversight mechanisms and provide support to local medical associations as they intensify checks on advertising for medical services, treatments and health products.

It also urged medical associations to immediately investigate advertisements containing false, misleading or scientifically unsupported claims and report violations to the relevant authorities.

Mazonakis death puts medical practices under scrutiny

The call comes days after the death of Mazonakis, 54, who suffered cardiac arrest while undergoing plasmapheresis at a private clinic in Athens.

The procedure involves removing blood plasma, filtering it and returning it to the patient.

The clinic had promoted longevity and anti ageing services, while investigators are examining allegations that it was not licensed to perform plasmapheresis, which requires hospital level facilities and equipment.

The circumstances surrounding Mazonakis’ death have triggered intense scrutiny of the clinic, the treatment he received and the actions of the doctors involved.

Two doctors are expected to appear before an investigating magistrate on Tuesday after being charged with homicide with possible intent.

The case has also intensified calls for authorities to examine how controversial medical and longevity treatments are marketed to the public, particularly online, where claims of anti ageing, rejuvenation and supposed health benefits can reach thousands of people with limited regulatory oversight.

Stay updated with the latest news from Greece and around the world on greekcitytimes.com.
Contact our newsroom to share your updates, stories, photos, or videos. Follow GCT on Google News and Apple News.