In recent days, the news of Marilyn Cote, who presented herself as a doctor without valid medical certification, has shaken the community. Cote, who posed as a specialist in cosmetic medicine and other treatments, allegedly offered medical services without the required professional training, putting the health and well-being of her patients at risk. This case is not only alarming, but it also reminds us of the need to question and verify the authenticity of those offering medical services, especially in a world where access to information can be as deceptive as it is immediate.

Falsifying medical credentials is not just deception, but an act that violates people's trust and can have devastating consequences for the health of those who seek help from these "professionals." According to preliminary reports, Cote allegedly performed invasive procedures and treatments that can pose a real danger to life, and this should serve as a warning to us all. What can we learn from this case? How can we protect ourselves and avoid falling into similar situations?

The first lesson the Marilyn Cote case teaches us is that trust in medicine and healthcare professionals cannot be blind. It is essential that we, as patients, take an active role in our own health, asking the right questions and, above all, demanding professional verification. Checking medical credentials is not a sign of distrust, but of responsibility. In most countries, there are online platforms where we can check if a doctor is properly registered and has the appropriate licenses to practice. Researching, asking questions, and getting to know those who treat us is fundamental, especially when it comes to cosmetic or invasive procedures that can irreversibly change our lives.

Besides serving as a warning to us, this case highlights the importance of regulation and oversight in the health and wellness industry. Today, aesthetics and alternative medicine are booming fields, which is positive in many ways, but it also presents a challenge in terms of safety and legality. Individuals without proper training can exploit this demand for profit, offering "fast" or "miraculous" results without being equipped to manage the associated risks. In extreme cases like Marilyn Cote's, the impact of these scams is not only financial but can also have serious consequences for the physical and emotional health of the affected patients.

Another important point concerns the culture of "appearances" and the pressure for physical perfection, which often pushes people to make impulsive decisions about their bodies. Advertising on social media and the normalization of cosmetic procedures sometimes make us forget the risks involved, leading us to believe they are harmless or simple. Medical, cosmetic, or any other type of procedure should be performed by qualified professionals who understand and respect the limitations of each treatment. No appearance is worth as much as our long-term safety and health.

Finally, this case encourages us to be more careful and mindful of our overall health. Appearance can be important, but not at the expense of our safety and well-being. Just as we scrutinize every detail of a major purchase or take precautions to protect our finances, we must do the same with our health. Informing ourselves, researching, and understanding the risks of each treatment is both our right and our responsibility.

To avoid falling into the wrong hands, remember these basic recommendations:

• Always verify credentials : Don't be afraid to ask for certifications, licenses, and inquire about the professional's experience in the specific procedure you wish to perform.
• Check official platforms : Look for records from medical colleges or professional verification platforms that are usually available online.
• Don't trust prices that are too low or excessive promotions : Sometimes cheap can be very expensive, especially in medical or cosmetic procedures.
• Ask and clarify all your doubts : A good healthcare professional will always be willing to answer your questions and explain the details of the procedure.

And you, have you ever had an experience that made you reflect on these issues? Have you ever felt pressured by social media or advertising to undergo a cosmetic procedure? Tell us your story. This space is also for us to reflect together and learn to take care of ourselves, to make informed and responsible decisions. Our health is our greatest treasure, and we shouldn't risk it!