Science News for May 4, 2002

First large doctor-patient e-mail study finds positive attitudes on both sides

A large randomized controlled study of e-mail communication between physicians and patients found that messages from patients were appropriate and needed by doctors. Patients sent an average of 49 messages per 100 scheduled visits, but the sharp increase didn't lead to a corresponding drop in calls or no-shows.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateMay 4, 2002

Low-grade cervical lesions likely to regress spontaneously in adoloscent women

A recent study published in the Pediatric Academic Societies found that low-grade cervical lesions (LSILs) tend to clear up on their own in adolescent women. The study of 187 adolescents aged 13-22 years showed that only 4% had persistent LSILs after three years, and most regressed within three months.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateMay 4, 2002