Global wellness industry growth and safety concerns

The global wellness economy, valued at approximately $6.8 trillion in 2024, is projected to reach $9.8 trillion by 2029. This sector includes personal care, nutrition, wellness tourism, and personalized medicine, often utilizing marketing terms such as “biohacking,” “cellular rejuvenation,” and “longevity.”

In Greece, the industry reached $18.45 billion in 2024, accounting for 7.18% of the national GDP. High-end services like intravenous (IV) vitamin therapy are marketed for metabolic optimization and recovery, often in luxury settings. However, concerns have emerged regarding regulation, as reports suggest non-specialized practitioners may be performing medical procedures. Following the death of Giorgos Mazonakis, some service-promoting websites became inaccessible, highlighting potential oversight gaps.

Historical trends within the industry demonstrate a pattern of unconventional and potentially dangerous practices driven by profit. Examples include the early 20th-century tapeworm diet, which carried risks of abdominal pain and organ blockages, and the use of vibrating belts marketed for effortless weight loss. Modern regulators, such as the Federal Trade Commission, maintain that certain body-worn devices cannot independently produce significant weight loss.