November/December 2024


While two new anti-amyloid therapies for mild dementia or mild cognitive impairment may offer patients hope the risks and benefits must be carefully weighed before starting treatment Image by freshidea

Alzheimer's advances pose challenges

A new test and new treatments for Alzheimer's disease may offer patients hope but could also raise more questions than they answer, with careful balancing of risks and benefits required.

Looking at trends in early-onset cancer

Some research shows cancer incidence rates slowly creeping up in younger patients, prompting questions about what's behind the numbers and how physicians can best address it with their patients.

Playing the long game for budget, physician fee reforms

At a time of significant political polarization, funding the government becomes critical and difficult.

When the doctor will (not) see you now

For many Americans, it is difficult to see a physician for an acute symptom, and almost impossible to get a primary care appointment for routine care in a reasonable amount of time.

Break the cycle of COPD exacerbations

New concepts in the field of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) include pre-COPD, which is defined by normal spirometry in the presence of symptoms, and PRISm, or preserved ratio impaired spirometry.

Examining cost effects of ‘skinny-label’ generics

A federal ruling over a patent dispute could lead to long-term effects on health care spending in the United States, a recent study indicated.

Bringing patients onto the diagnostic team

Patients and physicians may look at clinical diagnoses, and misdiagnoses, very differently, a recent study found.

Why obstetrics history should be part of primary care

Pregnancy brings a lot of women into medical care, creating an opportunity for education, patient counseling, and even disease diagnosis.

Primary care primed for BRCA management

A pathogenic sequence variation in either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene occurs in about one in 400 people, according to the National Cancer Institute.

At-home nasal flu vaccine, syphilis test approved

This column reviews recent recalls, alerts, and approvals.

Latest updates on ACP's priorities, initiatives

ACP Spotlight offers readers a look at ACP's current top priorities and initiatives, as well as highlights from our e-newsletter, I.M. Matters Weekly from ACP.

MKSAP Quiz: Evaluation for increasing fatigue and dyspnea with exertion

A 41-year-old man is evaluated in the emergency department for increasing fatigue and dyspnea with exertion. He was recently diagnosed with acute uncomplicated cystitis and started a course of nitrofurantoin 3 days ago. Following a physical exam and lab studies, what is the most appropriate additional management?

Nominees named for College Officer and Regent positions

The Governance Committee of the American College of Physicians places in nomination candidates for College governance.

Alzheimer's disease, early-onset cancer, and more stories

This month's issue covers Alzheimer's disease, breast cancer mutations, and "skinny label" generic drugs.

Obituary

The College notes the passing of a former Chapter Governor.