Windhoek, Namibia – Renowned medical doctor and former Minister of Health, Dr. Bernhard Haufiku, has called for a ban on all commercial advertisements in the health sector, expressing serious concerns about misinformation and ethical violations.
Dr. Haufiku’s remarks follow the circulation of advertisements, particularly on WhatsApp, promoting health supplements purported to treat and cure chronic conditions such as diabetes, ulcers, and high cholesterol. He described these claims as “medical misinformation that needs to be restricted” and called for stronger measures to protect the public.
“These commercial ads in the health domain are highly misleading and confuse the public,” Haufiku stated.
One company implicated in this controversy is NeoLife, which markets a variety of health supplements, including aloe vera juice. Promotional materials for the product claim it can alleviate ailments like ulcers, gastritis, bloating, and haemorrhoids.
However, Dr. Haufiku dismissed these claims, warning that they lack scientific backing and pose significant public health risks.
“Advertising food supplements and untested complementary products as treatments for well-known diseases such as peptic ulcers is both unethical and dangerous,” he said. “This is a money-making scheme for those involved, not a public health initiative.”
Misinformation and Exploitation in the Supplement Industry
The former health minister expressed particular concern about unverified health claims, which he described as “unscientific and unethical.” He noted that the global supplement industry, valued at approximately USD 6 billion, often prioritizes profit over public welfare.
“It is the responsibility of the state, healthcare professionals, the public, and the media to protect citizens from exploitative practices,” he emphasized.
Dr. Haufiku also criticized radio stations for airing advertisements that promote health products with exaggerated or false claims.
When approached for comment, a NeoLife agent declined to speak on record but defended the company’s products as “natural and organic.” Promotional messages from NeoLife claim that their supplements help the body heal itself by boosting the immune system.
Other products under scrutiny include Kangen water, which is marketed as a solution for weight loss, wound healing, blood pressure management, and other conditions.
Dr. Haufiku urged the government to regulate the advertising of health supplements and complementary products more strictly. He encouraged the public to consult medical professionals for accurate health information instead of relying on unverified claims.
“This is about protecting public health and ensuring ethical practices in the health sector,” he concluded.