Previously submitted to: JMIR Public Health and Surveillance (no longer under consideration since May 03, 2023)
Date Submitted: May 2, 2023
Warning: This is an author submission that is not peer-reviewed or edited. Preprints - unless they show as "accepted" - should not be relied on to guide clinical practice or health-related behavior and should not be reported in news media as established information.
Cushing's Syndrome in Children: An Unchecked Consequence of Steroid Use by Quacks in Rural Areas of Pakistan
ABSTRACT
The unchecked use of steroids by untrained practitioners, known as quacks, in rural areas of Pakistan has resulted in a surge of Cushing's Syndrome cases in children. This public health crisis requires urgent attention as it can cause growth retardation, delayed puberty, and cognitive impairment in children. The situation is further complicated by the lack of awareness among the local population about the dangers of steroid misuse, and the scarcity of medical facilities and qualified doctors in rural areas. To address this issue, a multi-pronged approach is required that involves raising awareness, strengthening regulatory mechanisms, and improving access to qualified medical professionals. This collaborative effort from all stakeholders can prevent further harm to children and promote their health and well-being.
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