Articles tagged with Internal Medicine
A study found that patients with unexplained chronic fatigue had nine times more prevalent sinus symptoms than the control group, and six times more common in those with unexplained chronic pain. Sinusitis may be a contributing factor to chronic fatigue syndrome in some cases.
A new study measures the emotions of doctors-in-training, finding that anxiety, guilt, and compassion are prevalent feelings. The research highlights the importance of acknowledging and managing these complex emotions to improve medical education and patient care.
A new study reveals that Katie Couric's on-air colonoscopy led to a significant increase in colon cancer screenings nationwide. Colonoscopy rates jumped over 20% in the days and months following Couric's test, sustained for nearly a year. The 'Katie Couric Effect' also showed an increase in screenings among women and people under age 50.
A randomized pilot study found that alternating two triple-drug regimens every three months significantly reduced drug failure and kept the viral load suppressed. However, a cost-effectiveness study identified four strategies to determine if a sore throat is caused by bacterial infection, reducing inappropriate antibiotic use.
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends against use of beta-carotene supplements for cancer or cardiovascular disease prevention due to lack of benefit and potential harm. Lawsuits involving human subjects research are increasing, leading to more careful research and increased costs, according to experts.
A new study suggests that pneumococcal vaccination can save medical costs for individuals aged 50 to 64, particularly those at high risk of pneumococcal disease. The cost-effectiveness of vaccination is comparable to other preventive services in this age group.
A new study found that transferred patients are sicker and more likely to die than those admitted directly, damaging hospital scores on measures used by patients, insurers, and employers. The 'transfer effect' must be accounted for in hospital benchmarking tools to ensure accurate representation of quality care.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has launched Phase II of the Medical Professionalism Charter Initiative, aiming to improve patient care and population health. The charter redefines professional conduct in healthcare, with over 90 associations endorsing it.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that oral estrogen therapy increased C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, while transdermal estrogen therapy had no effect. The researchers suggest that the route of administration may be a crucial factor in minimizing cardiovascular risks associated with e...
The American College of Physicians recommends aiming for blood pressure levels less than 135/80 mm Hg in patients with type 2 diabetes. Thiazide diuretics and ACE inhibitors can be used as first-line agents to control blood pressure, but patients may need multiple medications.
A high-meat protein diet may accelerate loss of kidney function in women with mild chronic kidney disease, according to data from the Nurses Health Study. Meanwhile, implantable cardioverter defibrillators have been shown to significantly reduce sudden cardiac death and deaths from all causes in many patients.
A daily multivitamin and mineral supplement reduced the incidence of minor infections among healthy people over 45. Intentional weight loss was associated with a 24% lower death rate compared to unintentional weight loss.
A new study found that patients in higher-spending regions receive more care, but it does not translate to better outcomes, patient satisfaction, or access to care. Removing liver tumors by ethanol injection therapy followed by interferon therapy may reduce the risk of tumor recurrence in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus.
A comprehensive analysis found that Medicare enrollees in higher-spending regions don't have better access to or quality of care, nor do they have better survival rates. In fact, those in higher-spending regions were less likely to receive preventive services.
A study examining ephedra's effects found it was more likely to cause negative side effects than other herbs; sale of ephedra as a supplement should be restricted or banned due to increased risk. A hospital discharge period is also deemed dangerous for patients, with one in five experiencing adverse events after going home.
Smallpox experts suggest limiting vaccinations to first responders to prevent complications and ensure public safety. The authors cite studies from the 1960s documenting vaccine-related complications, including spread to close contacts and increased risk of morbidity and mortality.
A study of over 3,357 people found that excess weight can cut years off a person's life, with smokers losing up to seven years. Meanwhile, hormone therapy was shown to lower the risk of diabetes in postmenopausal women by 35%.
A study analyzing Boston smallpox case records found that young patients, those unvaccinated, and those with severe disease had the lowest survival rates. In contrast, a college student study on echinacea found no effect on cold symptoms, highlighting the need for more research into its efficacy.
The American College of Physicians and the American Academy of Family Physicians have released new guidelines for treating migraines, recommending immediate treatment with NSAIDs or triptans, as well as managing nausea and vomiting symptoms. The guidelines also emphasize the importance of patient involvement in charting migraines and i...
A study of 75 patients found that postponing care for those with non-serious illnesses had comparable health outcomes to immediate care. Additionally, a new combination therapy for arthritis patients showed promise in reducing joint symptoms and improving function.
Methadone treatment is being expanded to office-based practices for patients with addiction, aiming to make it more accessible. Hair analysis has been found to be a significant advance in assessing exposure to antiretroviral therapies and monitoring patient response to indinavir, an anti-HIV drug.
Two studies found that patients with kidney disease are at increased risk of death after a heart attack, receiving less-aggressive treatment. Meanwhile, researchers report four cases of muscle damage caused by statins, highlighting the need for closer monitoring.
A researcher has reviewed over 350 clinical studies to find evidence-based therapies for stroke prevention, highlighting the underutilization of anti-coagulation therapy in high-risk patients. The study aims to make this evidence accessible to clinicians to improve healthcare outcomes.
A Canadian National Breast Cancer Screening Study found that annual mammography for five years had no impact on breast cancer deaths in women aged 40-49. The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends starting mammography at age 40, but evidence is considered 'fair' due to conflicting results.
A retrospective analysis of 4,054 study participants found that enalapril, an ACE inhibitor commonly given to patients with heart failure, is effective in both black and white populations. Despite equal response rates, black patients still had increased rates of progression to heart failure.
The American College of Physicians recommends screening adults over 50 for colorectal cancer. The Task Force identified two screening methods that have been shown to reduce death from colorectal cancer: the fecal occult blood test and flexible sigmoidoscopy.
The ACP-ASIM published 'Osteoporosis' guide provides the latest scientific evidence on osteoporosis and essential information on its origins and progress. It addresses every facet of osteoporosis, a common disease that can be identified through non-invasive tests and treated with new effective drugs to reduce fractures.
The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) advises women at low risk for breast cancer to avoid taking drugs like tamoxifen or raloxifene. Women at high risk, however, should have open discussions with their doctors about the benefits and risks of these medications.
Celebrating its 75th anniversary, Annals of Internal Medicine has published influential articles on Lyme disease, HIV/AIDS, and evidence-based medicine. The journal has continued to evolve with innovative features like structured abstracts and international discussions on editorial issues.
A study of 373 intravenous drug users found significant reductions in emergency department use among those using needle-exchange programs, including Hispanics, men, and those with mental illness. The study suggests that needle-exchange-based health care services can reduce emergency department use among high-risk IDUs.
A study found contaminated E. coli bacteria in hot sauces from popular tourist restaurants in Mexico and Texas, increasing the risk of travelers' diarrhea. A simple test can detect peripheral arterial disease by comparing blood pressure in the arm and lower leg.
Researchers found that cocaine elevates body temperature by impairing the body's ability to increase skin-blood flow, sweat, and perceive excessive heat stress. Cocaine abuse in hot temperatures increases the risk of serious heat-related injuries, including heat stroke and death.
A new series of articles explores the causes of medical errors, highlighting the limitations of relying solely on patient charts. Increasing the number of reviewers and requiring confidence in negligence can reduce rates of negligent events.
A study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that 11% of doctors are willing to misrepresent patient information to obtain HMO approval for surgery or additional procedures. The 'hassle factor' plays a significant role in this behavior, with more physicians willing to deceive if the appeal process is longer or more burdensome.
The USPSTF recommends screening all adults for depression, as five percent to nine percent of adult patients in primary care settings suffer from the condition. Depression can be treated with counseling, medications, or both, reducing health care utilization and costs associated with lost workdays.
Two new studies published in Annals of Internal Medicine shed light on diabetes diagnosis and management. A mathematical model predicts type 2 diabetes with high accuracy, while a report card reveals significant gaps in diabetes care. Additionally, experts emphasize the importance of preventive methods to address partner violence.
A study of 118 people with early Lyme disease found most had a red rash with central redness, not the traditional bull's-eye description. The patients' liver function returned to normal after treatment with antibiotics. Meanwhile, a case report describes pioglitazone causing liver damage in a diabetic patient.
Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating vomiting after chemotherapy or surgery, as well as nausea associated with pregnancy. However, its effectiveness in treating chronic pain, back pain, and headache is still a topic of debate, with conflicting results from clinical trials.
A study of 115 residents found that 76% suffered from burnout, with half being depressed and nine percent misusing alcohol. Residents with heavy education-related debts were more likely to moonlight and experience depression.
A Mayo Clinic study reveals a shift in heart disease burden from men to women and older adults. Heart attack rates decreased among younger men but increased among women over 80, while survival rates remained unchanged for those over 75.
Three influential organizations of internal medicine physicians unveil a new charter on medical professionalism, outlining three fundamental principles and ten definitive professional responsibilities. The charter aims to promote an action agenda for the profession, addressing challenges in healthcare delivery, technology, and globaliz...
A large study of men's health habits found that a prudent diet significantly reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The study indicates that avoiding weight gain and eating a balanced diet may substantially reduce this risk, highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle in preventing the disease.
A study in Annals of Internal Medicine finds that accurate profiling of physician care depends on study design, and that most quality initiatives fail to adjust for patient characteristics. Additionally, researchers estimate that colonoscopy is a cost-effective strategy for investigating rectal bleeding in young people
The USPSTF recommends discussing aspirin therapy with adult patients at increased risk of coronary heart disease, such as those with unfavorable cholesterol levels, smoking, or hypertension. Aspirin may help prevent heart attacks in these individuals, but its benefits and harms should be carefully weighed.
A recent study of over 2,000 patients found that good communication is crucial for building trust with physicians. Patients who experience poor communication or feel left out of medical decisions are more likely to consider changing their primary care provider.
A study found that comprehensive care and access to staff members are key factors in successful patient-physician relationships for lower-income women. These features can lead to higher trust, compassion, and communication ratings among patients.
Six popular herbal therapies - Ginkgo, St John's wort, Ginseng, Echinacea, Saw palmetto, and Kava - have varying levels of effectiveness and safety. Prednisone, a glucocorticoid, reduced swelling and progression of damage to joints in patients with early active rheumatoid arthritis.
The article highlights three articles addressing hypertension control: managing diabetes, blood pressure-lowering drugs, and the DASH diet. Additionally, a study reveals gaps in newspaper articles on mammography, which often oversimplify or misrepresent scientific evidence.
Two studies examine the link between sex hormones and coronary artery spasm, finding that estrogen levels during menstruation affect blood vessel function. Automated external defibrillators are also shown to be safe and easy to use by trained laypersons, paving the way for potential home sales.
UT Southwestern Medical Center has been awarded $3.6 million in funding to support 19 research projects across various disciplines. The largest grant will go towards developing a cancer-detecting blood test, which has already shown promising results in clinical trials.
A new study found that 41% of physicians would perform at least one action proscribed by the AMA's ethics guidelines, while 25% would perform five or more actions. The study suggests that some physicians are morally confused about their role in capital punishment.
Two reports on HBV infection shed light on the effectiveness of vaccination programs in reducing the disease rate and carrier state. A study found that 70% of carriers recovered within ten years after treatment, while a nationwide vaccination program for adults is crucial to prevent further transmission.
The ACP-ASIM survey found that 60% of respondents under 40 use handheld computers to access drug information and clinical references. The organization is expanding its educational resources through a Personal Digital Assistant Portal on its website.
Researchers will study 12 astronaut crew members before, during and after space missions to assess cardiac mass, compliance and relaxation. Findings may help prevent cardiac atrophy and arrhythmias in individuals confined to long-term bed rest or with conditions associated with cardiac stiffness.
A study of internists found that physicians often do not follow best practices due to concerns about patient individuality. The study suggests that noncompliance with guidelines can be a valid reflection of questions about their usefulness and applicability.
Local experts urge a $300 million increase in Ryan White/CARE Act funding to ensure stable medical care and treatment for newly diagnosed patients. HIV infection can be managed as a chronic disease with access to services and new anti-AIDS drugs.
A study of 2,437 HIV-infected adults found that patients with case managers had fewer unmet needs and higher use of HIV medications. Screening for hereditary colorectal cancer has been shown to work and may be cost-effective, particularly for relatives of affected individuals.
Researchers found that women taking hormone replacement therapy were 40% more likely to require gallbladder surgery than those on placebo. Additionally, high-dose cyclophosphamide was successful in treating some aplastic anemia patients, offering potential implications for the treatment of severe autoimmune diseases.
The American College of Physicians announces new standards for manuscript submission, emphasizing author disclosure of sponsor involvement. These revised guidelines, developed by the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors, aim to prevent pharmaceutical companies from controlling study data and results.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that African-American patients receive fewer heart procedures than white patients, despite having a higher risk of heart disease. Researchers suggest various factors, including patient education and physician attitudes, may contribute to these disparities.