Disease mongering: expanding the boundaries of treatable disease

Abstract

Traditionally, the promotional activities of medical industries have been product specific. In recent years, however, there have been examples where companies have worked through partnerships, which have included clinicians, to expand the boundaries of treatable disorders. The main motivation appears to be to increase sales of commercial products. The term 'disease mongering' has been applied to these activities. Whereas some disease awareness programmes may bring benefits in the form of improved recognition and management of disorders, the presence of strong commercial interests probably distorts the traditional processes by which treatable diseases have been defined. This can result in ind..