Post by : Saif Rahman

Actress Sonali Bendre recently stirred discussion among medical professionals by sharing her experience with cancer recovery. After being diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic cancer in 2018, she attributed part of her healing to a natural process known as autophagy, alongside conventional treatments. This revelation prompted a debate among doctors, who voiced concerns that such statements could mislead cancer patients.

In her social media post, Sonali expressed gratitude towards her naturopath, who introduced her to autophagy during her treatment. She mentioned that she conducted her own research and continued this practice even after completing her primary medical treatment. Autophagy, which involves the breakdown and recycling of damaged cells, is heralded by some supporters as a potential aid in combating serious illnesses. Sonali's endorsement of this method acknowledged her reliance on scientific medical treatments.

Despite her statements, many healthcare professionals, including renowned liver specialist Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, expressed strong opposition to the notion that autophagy or naturopathy significantly contributed to her recovery. He highlighted that Sonali had undergone comprehensive medical treatment at a leading cancer facility in New York, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, emphasizing that these scientifically validated approaches were fundamental to her becoming cancer-free.

Dr. Philips cautioned that promoting unverified therapies could mislead cancer patients. He reiterated that naturopathy is not an established cancer treatment and highlighted the risk of patients resorting to unproven remedies instead of seeking evidence-based care. Various other doctors echoed his sentiments, noting that public figures endorsing unproven therapies could lead patients to forgo essential medical interventions.

Some observers reacted positively to Sonali’s post, insisting that she did not dismiss chemotherapy or conventional medicine's role in her journey. They argued that her reference to autophagy was merely supplementary and not indicative of her claiming it as a sole cure. Defenders pointed out that she had sufficiently acknowledged her primary medical treatments.

Sonali Bendre's battle with stage 4 cancer began in 2018, leading her to travel to the United States for treatment at the esteemed Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. After a year of intensive care, she returned to India, with doctors declaring her cancer-free. Since then, she has openly discussed her cancer journey and the emotional toll it has taken.

This ongoing debate underscores critical issues for cancer patients who frequently seek hope through alternative paths. However, doctors remain wary of how well-intentioned messages may inadvertently mislead individuals towards untested treatments instead of sound medical options. They emphasize the necessity of scientifically supported cancer care, noting that while a healthy lifestyle is beneficial, it cannot replace proper medical treatment.

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