Is it permissible to abstain from medical treatment even if the disease is life-threatening?

Answer

Medicine is not in the same category as food. There is no certitude in medical diagnosis, prescription and opinion. If a person has true Tawakkul, then it is perfectly permissible for him to abstain from medical treatment. In fact it is better for one's health to stay away from these doctors who are unable to diagnose properly. They prescribe drugs with serious side effects.