Avoiding disease mongering: A checklist for vascular physicians and researchers

Area of Science:

• Medical Research Ethics
• Vascular Medicine
• Health Economics

Background:

• Disease mongering, coined by Lynn Payer, describes expanding medical markets by redefining illnesses.
• The management of superficial vein thrombosis (SVT) remains debated post-CALISTO trial, with concerns about cost-effectiveness and trial endpoints.
• Researchers with interests in SVT may inadvertently contribute to disease mongering.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically assess the potential for disease mongering in the context of superficial vein thrombosis.
• To review existing literature on SVT through the lens of disease mongering concepts.
• To identify key areas where disease mongering tactics might be employed in SVT research and promotion.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a comprehensive literature search across Embase, Medline, Web of Science, and Opengrey databases.
• Developed and utilized a seventeen-item checklist to evaluate disease mongering aspects in SVT literature.
• Performed a narrative review of the literature using the checklist as a framework.

Main Results:

• The review identified disease mongering concerns primarily related to the definition and promotion of SVT.
• The management strategies for SVT appeared less affected by disease mongering issues.
• Key concerns included exaggeration of SVT severity, promotion by opinion leaders, and conflicts of interest.

Conclusions:

• While arguments can be countered, researchers must be vigilant about potential disease mongering in SVT.
• Particular attention should be paid to the exaggeration of disease severity and adverse outcomes.
• Transparency regarding opinion leader promotion and conflicts of interest is crucial in SVT research.