Doctor's Death Fuels Health Scams Globally

Diaa al-Awadi, an Egyptian doctor whose medical license was permanently revoked in February 2026, promoted unscientific health claims, including that insulin was a fraud and chemotherapy unnecessary. His system, 'al-Tayyibat', which prohibited many healthy foods while permitting unhealthy ones, gained over a million followers before his death in April 2026. Despite official attempts to ban his content, his influence has paradoxically increased, with conspiracy theories surrounding his death circulating widely and thousands attending his funeral.

Worldwide, the World Health Organization is prioritizing the fight against health misinformation, as cases of misplaced faith in alternative healers rise. A 2024 report indicated a high percentage of false medical advice on platforms like TikTok. In Egypt, this trend is exacerbated by expensive and inaccessible formal healthcare, with over 57% of health expenses paid directly by patients. Al-Awadi's followers have suffered severe consequences, including Shaimaa al-Badawi, a lupus patient who died after stopping medication, and Fatima Adel, who developed diabetic foot after abandoning her insulin treatment.

Social media algorithms are identified as a significant factor in amplifying such dangerous ideas, creating an illusion that these unproven methods are widely accepted and effective. Even after al-Awadi's clinics were closed and legal action was taken against parents following his advice, his content continues to circulate widely on platforms like Facebook, with groups dedicated to his teachings amassing millions of members. This phenomenon is seen as part of a global rise in populism and distrust in institutions.