In the News
Potential overdiagnosis may be significantly associated with breast cancer screening
Danish researchers assessed screening programs offering biennial mammography for women ages 50 to 69 years to determine trends in the incidence of advanced and nonadvanced breast cancer tumors.
Statins often not prescribed in younger patients with dyslipidemia, study finds
Patients who had at least one indication for statin therapy were analyzed according to the following groups: LDL cholesterol level of at least 190 mg/dL, diabetes and LDL cholesterol level above 70 mg/dL, and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
MKSAP Quiz: 6-month history of worsening exertional dyspnea
A 67-year-old man is evaluated for a 6-month history of worsening exertional dyspnea. He has severe COPD, previously with minimal exertional symptoms, but now notes activity-limiting shortness of breath when walking short distances. He does not have chest pain, gastrointestinal symptoms, or sleep-related symptoms. Medical history is otherwise unremarkable. Medications are a twice-daily fluticasone/salmeterol inhaler and an as-needed albuterol/ipratropium metered-dose inhaler. He has a 55-pack-year smoking history but quit when COPD was diagnosed. Following a physical exam, chest radiograph, and transthoracic echocardiogram, what is the most appropriate diagnostic test to perform next?
Alcohol abuse may increase risk of heart conditions as much as other risk factors
Researchers analyzed data from a Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project database in California to determine the association between a diagnosis of alcohol abuse and incident atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, and congestive heart failure.
Debating ‘repeal and replace’
Last week, ACP sent a letter to the Senate asking that they vote “No” on a budget resolution that would start the process of repealing the Affordable Care Act.
Register now for new ACP Leadership Academy webinar on resiliency
The hourlong webinar, to be held Wednesday, Jan. 25, at 6:00 p.m. ET, will be led by Gail Gazelle, MD, FACP, a practicing physician, part-time Harvard Medical School assistant professor, and physician executive coach.
Put words in our mouth
ACP Internist Weekly wants readers to create captions for our new cartoon and help choose the winner. Pen the winning caption and win a $50 gift certificate good toward any ACP product, program, or service.