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Kenya’s medical regulator has condemned claims that chronic illnesses such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, and blindness can be cured through faith healing, warning that such statements by medical practitioners pose a risk to public health.
The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) said it was investigating reports that doctors made claims of miraculous healing during a religious crusade in Nakuru.
The claims involved conditions including HIV/AIDS, cancer, blindness, deafness, muteness and physical disabilities, the council said in a statement signed on Saturday by its chief executive, Dr David G. Kariuki.
KMPDC said it “unequivocally condemns” unverified claims of healing, particularly when made by licensed health professionals, stressing that all medical treatment must be based on scientific evidence and proper regulatory approval.
“Claims of healing for chronic or life-threatening conditions, such as HIV/AIDS or cancer, require verifiable medical documentation and cannot be accepted without independent verification by qualified healthcare professionals,” the council said.
It warned that such “unsubstantiated claims, especially by health professionals,” may mislead vulnerable individuals and deter them from seeking proven therapies, potentially leading to worsened health outcomes, drug resistance, or loss of life.
While acknowledging the role of faith and spiritual belief, the council cautioned against relying solely on unverified methods for serious illnesses and advised patients not to stop prescribed treatment for conditions such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes, hypertension and epilepsy.
“While faith and spiritual beliefs play an important role in many people’s lives, relying solely on unverified healing methods for serious illnesses can pose grave risks,” KMPDC said, adding that abandoning prescribed treatment contradicts established public health guidelines.
The council said it is working with the Ministry of Health and other regulatory bodies to investigate the matter. It said disciplinary or legal action could be taken against practitioners found to have breached medical ethics or health laws.
“KMPDC is working closely with the Ministry of Health and other regulatory bodies to investigate these claims. Appropriate actions will be taken against any practitioner (or health professional) in order to safeguard public health, uphold medical ethics and protect citizens from misinformation. This includes potential legal measures against any practices that endanger lives or violate health regulations.”
It, however, urged Kenyans to report any suspicious claims to relevant authorities for verification.
