In the News

Large numbers of elderly patients with low life expectancy still receiving unnecessary cancer screens

A substantial proportion of patients with limited life expectancy are receiving prostate, breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screenings that are unlikely to benefit them, a recent study found.

USPSTF recommends intensive behavioral counseling for overweight, obese adults with additional CVD risk factors

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) announced an update and refinement of its 2003 recommendation on dietary counseling for adults with risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD).

MKSAP Quiz: 8-month history of crampy abdominal pain, loose bowel movements

A 42-year-old woman is evaluated for an 8-month history of crampy abdominal pain and three loose bowel movements per day. The pain is relieved by a bowel movement. There are no nocturnal bowel movements, and there is no blood or dark tarry material in the stool. She has not had fever, night sweats, or weight loss. She has a history of Hashimoto disease and is treated with levothyroxine. Following a physical exam, rectal exam, and lab tests, what is the most appropriate next step in management?

Phone and medication intervention increased smoking cessation after hospital discharge

A post-discharge intervention increased smoking cessation among recently hospitalized adults who wanted to quit, a recent study found.

Clarithromycin may be associated with increased risk for cardiac death

Clarithromycin may be associated with increased risk for cardiac death, although the absolute risk appears small, according to a new study.

Deadline to review data on industry payments extended to Sept. 8

Physicians and teaching hospitals now have until Sept. 8, 2014 to register, preview, and dispute data submitted by industry as part of CMS's Open Payments Preview and Dispute period.