EMBARGOED FOR RELEASE
UNTIL 5 P.M., EST,
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 1997
March 1, 1997, Tip Sheet
Annals of Internal Medicine is published by the American College of Physicians, more than 90,000 physicians trained in internal medicine. The following highlights are not intended to substitute for articles as sources of information. For a copy of an article, call 1- 800-523-1546, ext. 2656 or 215-351-2656.
* * *
Screening for Asymptomatic Carotid Stenosis Not Cost-Effective
Screening for asymptomatic carotid stenosis to identify candidates for endarterectomy would be excessively costly, an analysis of published clinical data shows. (Article, p. 337.)
* * *
Specific Medical Benefits Derived From Transdermal Nicotine, Moderate Alcohol Consumption
Transdermal nicotine administered at the highest possible dosage for four weeks effectively controls the clinical manifestations of mild-to-moderate active ulcerative colitis, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-
controlled study shows. (Article, p. 364.)
Moderate alcohol consumption decreases the risk for angina pectoris and myocardial infarction in apparently healthy men, a prospective cohort study of healthy male physicians finds. (Article, p. 372.)
* * *
Exploring Systematic Reviews and Clinical Decisions
The first of a series of articles examines systematic reviews (concise, comprehensive overviews of tests and treatments, carried out according to certain methodologic standards) and how they are used in medical decision making. (Academia and Clinic, p. 376.); (Editorial, p. 389.)
* * *
Clinical Interventions and End-Of-Life Care
Intensive physician education and broad institutional programs are more promising as interventions to change end-of-life care than advance directives, a review shows. Changing physician practices, reducing cost, and improving pain control and satisfaction for patients should be goals of future efforts, the authors state. (Review, p. 381.)
* * *
Early Detection of Prostate Cancer
Part I of a two-part paper reviews and synthesizes evidence relating to prostate cancer. (Position Paper, p. 394.) Part II of the paper (to be published in the upcoming March 15, 1997, issue) includes prostate cancer screening guidelines from the American College of Physicians.
RSS