Family Practice News RSS feed: Current Issue. Family Practice News is an independent newspaper that provides the family physician with timely and relevant news and commentary about clinical developments in the field and about the impact of health care policy on the specialty and the physician's practice. To order this journal, and for more information, go to http://www.imng.com/ http://www.familypracticenews.com/?rss=yesElsevier Inc.en © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. Family Practice News0300-7073401January 2010 © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. healthpermissions@elsevier.comhttp://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700013/abstract?rss=yesSAN ANTONIO — Two differently designed studies found a nearly identical, roughly 30% reduction in the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women who took bisphosphonates to prevent or remediate bone loss.Fewer Breast Cancers in Bisphosphonate UsersBETSY BATES10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70001-3Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3News11http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700025/abstract?rss=yesORLANDO — Patients who had their coronary calcium levels imaged by CT angiography had substantially better survival than did similar patients who underwent standard management, an observational study has shown.CT Angiography May Help Cut MortalityMITCHEL L. ZOLER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70002-5Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3News11http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700037/abstract?rss=yesFAMILY PRACTICE NEWS is changing its look and content to meet your information needs. Over the last year, we listened as our readers and editorial advisers described how they want to read the news.Family Practice News Gets a New Look in 2010Kathryn DeMott, Mary Jo M. Dales10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70003-7Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3News22http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700049/abstract?rss=yesA Defense Department spending bill that included a 2-month delay in the scheduled 21% cut in the rate that Medicare pays physicians was signed into law by President Obama on Dec. 19, shortly after the Senate's 88–10 vote on the same day in favor of the legislation.Last-Minute SGR Law Delays Medicare Pay Cut 2 MonthsALICIA AULT10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70004-9Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3News22http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700050/abstract?rss=yesVital Signs: Who's to Blame for the Health Care System's Problems?10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70005-0Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3News22http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700062/abstract?rss=yesWill 2010 be the year of health reform? Many members of Congress hope it will be, but they will have a fight on their hands from some of their colleagues. In a speech to a joint session Congress last February—almost a year ago—President Obama told legislators he wanted a health reform bill on his desk soon.Reform Bills Would Give Some FPs a 10% BonusJOYCE FRIEDEN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70006-2Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3News44http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700074/abstract?rss=yes Major Finding: The once-promising selective estrogen-receptor modulator (SERM), arzoxifene, has hit upon a deal breaker: It doesn't prevent nonvertebral fractures.Arzoxifene Flunks Trial for Fracture PreventionBRUCE JANCIN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70007-4Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3News55http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700086/abstract?rss=yesThe state of California is cutting back its coverage of mammograms for uninsured, low-income women, citing a budget shortfall. The California Department of Public Health announced that, as of Jan. 1, it raised the eligibility age for breast cancer screening services from 40 to 50 years for women in the Every Woman Counts program. The state-run program provides free clinical breast exams, mammograms, pelvic exams, and Pap tests to uninsured women with incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. As an additional money-saving measure, the state suspended new enrollment for breast cancer screening for 6 months.California Cuts Coverage For MammographyMARY ELLEN SCHNEIDER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70008-6Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3News55http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700098/abstract?rss=yesThe approval of olanzapine for two pediatric indications—the treatment of schizophrenia and of manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder in adolescents aged 13–17 years—comes with a precaution.FDA Advises Caution in Olanzapine Use in TeensELIZABETH MECHCATIE10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70009-8Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3News67http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700104/abstract?rss=yesThe high risk of neural tube defects and other major malformations in babies exposed to valproate sodium and the related products, valproic acid and divalproex sodium, during the first trimester is the focus of a Food and Drug Administration notice to health care professionals.FDA Warns of Valproate's Fetal RisksELIZABETH MECHCATIE10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70010-4Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3News77http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700116/abstract?rss=yesGAITHERSBURG, MD. — Findings from the JUPITER study were persuasive enough to convince a Food and Drug Administration advisory panel that the benefits of rosuvastatin for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease outweighed the risks in a new target population.Panel Supports Rosuvastatin for High hsCRPELIZABETH MECHCATIE10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70011-6Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3News from the FDA88http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700128/abstract?rss=yesWarnings about potential hepatotoxicity risks associated with use of diclofenac have been added to the labels of all products containing the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, the Food and Drug Administration said.Hepatotoxicity Warning Added to Diclofenac LabelELIZABETH MECHCATIE10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70012-8Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3News88http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS030070731070013X/abstract?rss=yesGAITHERSBURG, MD. — Studies of an inhaled formulation of the monobactam antibiotic aztreonam in patients with cystic fibrosis show that it is a safe and effective treatment for Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections in this population, most of a federal advisory panel agreed.Inhaled Antibiotic Endorsed for Infections in Cystic FibrosisELIZABETH MECHCATIE10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70013-XFamily Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3News88http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700141/abstract?rss=yesIn his editorial, Dr. Joseph S. Eastern stated that any physician treating a deaf patient has the legal obligation to provide a sign language interpreter who is familiar with medical terminology (“Listen Up,” Family Practice News, May 15, 2009, p. 35).LettersDavid L. Keller10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70014-1Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Opinion1010http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700153/abstract?rss=yesWe asked our editorial advisory board members for their thoughts on the most important challenges facing family physicians in 2010. Here's a look at what they said: Dr. David S. Abend of Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in New York says that finding ways to earn extra income will be critical for family physicians in the coming year. His preference: manipulation under anesthesia, which he says is one of many unique procedures that family physicians, especially DOs, can add to their practice. The difficulty of dealing with insurance plans will continue, he says. Most of my patients find me online or call their insurance company. I've been in-network in most insurance plans my whole 18-year career. I have to deal with out-of-network specialists who are looking for profit. I feel it's not my role/job to “sell” their practices or skills. How this impacts me and others is of great interest, especially with the new year and health care reform.Charting the Course of Family Medicine in 201010.1016/S0300-7073(10)70015-3Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Advisers' Commentary1111http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700165/abstract?rss=yesIn the article “HEART Score Predicts Chest Pain Outcomes” (Family Practice News, Oct. 15, 2009, p. 19), the percentage of patients with a HEART score of 0–3 who had a major adverse coronary event within 6 weeks following presentation was 1%, not 0.1%.Corrections10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70016-5Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Opinion1111http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700177/abstract?rss=yes Major Finding: The Corus genetic test bested two standard risk factor assessments for predicting obstructive coronary artery disease.Genetic-Test Algorithm Is Validated for CAD AssessmentMITCHEL L. ZOLER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70017-7Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Cardiovascular Medicine1212http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700189/abstract?rss=yesSAN DIEGO — Prophylactic use of a proton pump inhibitor plus clopidogrel after percutaneous coronary revascularization was associated with significantly greater risk for cardiovascular events, compared with taking clopidogrel alone, a small retrospective study found.PPI/Clopidogrel May Raise Risk After PCISHERRY BOSCHERT10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70018-9Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Cardiovascular Medicine1212http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700190/abstract?rss=yesORLANDO — Hypertensive women experience significantly less regression of left ventricular hypertrophy than do men in response to equal pharmacologic lowering of blood pressure, yet their resultant reduction in cardiovascular events is just as great.Antihypertensives Cut Events, but Not LVH, in WomenBRUCE JANCIN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70019-0Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Cardiovascular Medicine1212http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700207/abstract?rss=yesCHICAGO — The Framingham Heart Study risk algorithm fails to identify a significant number of individuals at high risk of coronary heart disease, and its accuracy could be improved significantly by integrating coronary calcium scoring, according to a new study from the Netherlands.Calcium Score Tweaks Framingham AlgorithmRICHARD HYER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70020-7Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Cardiovascular Medicine1414http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700219/abstract?rss=yesORLANDO — Patients with heart failure had a greater than twofold increased risk of subsequently developing diabetes compared with people without heart failure in a review of more than 4,600 individuals in the Framingham Offspring Study.Heart Failure Raises New-Onset Diabetes RiskMITCHEL L. ZOLER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70021-9Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Cardiovascular Medicine1919http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700220/abstract?rss=yesORLANDO — Higher serum levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were linked with lower risk for incident cancer in a meta-analysis of 21 randomized controlled trials. An unadjusted analysis of cancer incidence rates showed that every 10-mg/dL increment in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) was linked with a 24% relative reduction in new-onset cancers.Higher HDL Levels Linked to Cancer Rate CutMitchel L. Zoler10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70022-0Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Cardiovascular Medicine1919http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700232/abstract?rss=yes Major Findings: Survival to adulthood has significantly improved for persons born with congenital heart disease, from 82% in those born in the 1970s to 89% in those born in the 1990s.Congenital Heart Disease Survival to Age 18 at 89%MITCHEL L. ZOLER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70023-2Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Cardiovascular Medicine2020http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700244/abstract?rss=yesIntensive medical therapy for asymptomatic carotid stenosis has decreased the risk of stroke to such a degree that it has marginalized the benefits of revascularization in most patients, according to a new study.Drug Tx Now First Choice for Asymptomatic Carotid StenosisMARY ANN MOON10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70024-4Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Cardiovascular Medicine2020http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700256/abstract?rss=yes Major Findings: Women with congenital heart disease had a 12% rate of late cardiac events after pregnancy. The strongest independent risk factor for such an event was a cardiac event before or during pregnancy.CHD Ups Risk for Cardiac Event After PregnancyMITCHEL L. ZOLER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70025-6Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Cardiovascular Medicine2020http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700268/abstract?rss=yes Major finding: With use of four criteria to help determine whether to monitor infants with congenital hypothyroidism, monthly monitoring was deemed required in 75% of children in the first 6 months of life and in 35% during the second 6 months.Monthly Check Urged for Hypothyroid InfantsMIRIAM E. TUCKER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70026-8Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Metabolic Disorders2121http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS030070731070027X/abstract?rss=yesNew draft hyperthyroidism treatment guidelines from the American Thyroid Association and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists emphasize that although radioactive iodine is a good treatment for the disorder, patients need to consult with their physicians about all three available treatment options: radioactive iodine, surgery, and antithyroid medications, according to Dr. Rebecca Bahn.Draft Guidelines for Grave's Treatment Stress OptionsJOYCE FRIEDEN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70027-XFamily Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Metabolic Disorders2121http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700281/abstract?rss=yesSAN FRANCISCO — Sleep apnea can cause metabolic dysfunction, some of which can be reversed by treating the disorder with continuous positive airway pressure, a small 8-week study of 29 patients suggests.Therapy for Sleep Apnea May Improve Metabolic MeasuresSHERRY BOSCHERT10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70028-1Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Metabolic Disorders2121http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700293/abstract?rss=yes Major finding: On CT examination, coronary artery calcium scores appeared similar in patients with diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or neither disease.CT Data Challenge Diabetes as a Cardiac RiskMITCHEL L. ZOLER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70029-3Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Metabolic Disorders2626http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS030070731070030X/abstract?rss=yesSAN FRANCISCO — Treating metabolic abnormalities in patients with schizophrenia may be a better way to deal with insulin resistance or dyslipidemia than switching antipsychotics, Dr. Sun H. Kim suggests.Metabolic Issues Can Persist Even With Antipsychotic SwitchSHERRY BOSCHERT10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70030-XFamily Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Metabolic Disorders2626http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700311/abstract?rss=yesORLANDO — In elderly patients with diabetes and no history of coronary artery or peripheral artery disease, exercise capacity less than 85% of predicted independently identified patients at increased risk for death, stroke, or myocardial infarction in a study of more than 600 patients.TESST Predicts Cardiac Risk in Elderly DiabeticsMITCHEL L. ZOLER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70031-1Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Metabolic Disorders2727http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700323/abstract?rss=yesThe National Vaccine Plan should prioritize limited resources to meet unmet health needs and to increase funds for safety research and communication, the Institute of Medicine said in a new report.IOM Report Identifies National Vaccine PrioritiesMIRIAM E. TUCKER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70032-3Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Infectious Diseases2828http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700335/abstract?rss=yesSAN FRANCISCO — Antiretroviral therapy has allowed many HIV-infected people to live long enough to grow old, yet their immune systems seem to age rapidly for their chronologic age, a factor that appears to be contributing to increased risks for non-HIV diseases of aging in middle-aged patients, according to several speakers at a meeting on the medical management of HIV and AIDS sponsored by the University of California, San Francisco.Immune Systems of HIV Patients Age RapidlySHERRY BOSCHERT10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70033-5Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Infectious Diseases2929http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700347/abstract?rss=yesBERLIN — Consistent use of condoms has a moderate protective effect against acquisition of herpes simplex virus 2, the leading cause of genital ulcer disease worldwide. A recent pooled analysis of six prospective studies concluded that men and women who used condoms 100% of the time during sex had a 30% lower risk of HSV-2 acquisition than people who never used condoms, Dr. Laurence Le Cleach said at the annual congress of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.Condoms Provide Partial Protection Against HSV-2BRUCE JANCIN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70034-7Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Infectious Diseases2929http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700359/abstract?rss=yesA method of modeling global pandemic patterns has found that local commuting patterns provide a strong correlation and synchrony in the evolution of an emerging disease at the local level and during the tail end of disease spread.Study Evaluates Commuting Patterns and Pandemic SpreadDOUG BRUNK10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70035-9Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Infectious Diseases2929http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700360/abstract?rss=yesThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its recommendations on early and late antiviral treatment during the 2009–2010 influenza season, and provided more guidance on the use of the investigational antiviral drug peramivir.CDC Revises Flu Treatment, Peramivir GuidanceJEFF EVANS10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70036-0Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Infectious Diseases3233http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700372/abstract?rss=yesThe pandemic influenza A(H1N1) virus does not appear to spread among an infected person's household contacts as easily as viruses in past pandemics, according to an analysis of data collected in the United States.H1N1 Transmissibility Found Relatively WeakHEIDI SPLETE10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70037-2Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Infectious Diseases3434http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700384/abstract?rss=yesThirteen lots of the nasal spray pandemic influenza A(H1N1) vaccine have been recalled because of slightly decreased potency. The recall of the affected batches of MedImmune's Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent Vaccine Live, Intranasal is not safety related, but a result of routine, ongoing stability testing. Last month, the company notified the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration that the potency of the 13 lots of nasal spray vaccine had decreased below a prespecified limit or was at risk of falling below that limit.MedImmune Recalls 13 Lots Of H1N1 VaccineMiriam E. Tucker10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70038-4Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Infectious Diseases3434http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700396/abstract?rss=yesA single 15-mcg dose of pandemic influenza A(H1N1) vaccine provided hemagglutination titers of 1:40 or greater in 93% of infants and children, results from a multicenter study in Australia showed.H1N1 Vaccine: One May Be EnoughDOUG BRUNK10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70039-6Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Infectious Diseases3535http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700402/abstract?rss=yesThe way Dr. Anne Schuchat sees it, physicians and other clinicians have more influence than anybody else on a patient's decision to be vaccinated against the pandemic influenza A(H1N1) virus.Health Providers Carry Vaccination ‘Clout’DOUG BRUNK10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70040-2Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Infectious Diseases3535http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700414/abstract?rss=yesWith 100 million doses of pandemic H1N1 influenza now available, Americans have a “unique opportunity” to minimize—or even prevent—a third wave of the disease this winter. Thus far, most vaccine has been reserved for high-priority groups that are most vulnerable to H1N1, but vaccine production is now in full swing and federal officials are urging everyone to get immunized.H1N1 Vaccine Production in Full SwingMICHELE G. SULLIVAN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70041-4Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Infectious Diseases3535http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700426/abstract?rss=yesCHICAGO — An ultrasound technique that measures tissue elasticity could dramatically alter the way in which skin cancer is diagnosed. In a prospective study of 56 patients with proliferative malignant neoplasms or benign skin lesions, the use of ultrasound elastography analysis prior to biopsy correctly differentiated benign from malignant lesions in 100% of cases, Dr. Eliot Siegel reported Decthe annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America.Ultrasound Elastography Helps ID Skin CancerPATRICE WENDLING10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70042-6Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Skin Disorders3636http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700438/abstract?rss=yesThe diagnosis of melanoma is delayed in Hispanic and black patients, compared with whites, and thus the mortality burden is disproportionately high in these minority populations, according to a database analysis.Melanoma Diagnosis Delayed In Hispanic, Black PatientsMARY ANN MOON10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70043-8Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Skin Disorders3636http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS030070731070044X/abstract?rss=yesBERLIN — Isotretinoin could be headed for a new indication as a licensed treatment for rosacea. The workhorse oral retinoid has been used off label to treat challenging cases of rosacea for more than 2 decades. However, Barcelona-based Almirall recently sponsored a successful multicenter randomized trial aimed at earning an indication from regulatory authorities for its branded version of isotretinoin in the treatment of rosacea, Dr. Harald Gollnick said at the annual congress of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.Optimal Isotretinoin Dosing For Rosacea IdentifiedBRUCE JANCIN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70044-XFamily Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Skin Disorders3636http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700451/abstract?rss=yesPORTLAND, ORE. — Skin lesions are a hallmark of Merkel cell carcinoma, yet dermatologists are often left out of the loop in diagnosing patients with the disease, said Dr. Paul Nghiem.Merkel Cell Carcinoma Follows Unusual PathDOUG BRUNK10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70045-1Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Skin Disorders4141http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700463/abstract?rss=yesApproximately 1% of 8-year-old children in the United States meet criteria for an autism spectrum disorder, based on results of a nationwide study of 8-year-olds conducted in 2006.About 1% of 8-Year-Olds Have Autism DisordersHEIDI SPLETE10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70046-3Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Mental Health4242http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700475/abstract?rss=yesWASHINGTON — The number of teenagers reporting marijuana use is up slightly over the last 2 years, along with the proportion of those reporting any illicit drug use, according to the biannual Monitoring the Future survey, which is conducted for the National Institute on Drug Abuse.Teen Marijuana Use Up; Meth And Tobacco Use DeclineALICIA AULT10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70047-5Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Mental Health4242http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700487/abstract?rss=yes Major finding: Significant improvement in ADHD symptoms and a sharp reduction in substance use were observed, regardless of whether adolescents received OROS-MPH (Concerta) or placebo.CBT Helpful in Comorbid ADHD/Substance UseBETSY BATES10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70048-7Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Mental Health4242http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700499/abstract?rss=yesBOSTON — Taking a good history and administering a brief cognitive screening test can go a long way toward identifying Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, according to one family physician.History, Simple Tests Aid Dementia DiagnosisMARY ELLEN SCHNEIDER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70049-9Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Mental Health4444http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700505/abstract?rss=yesATLANTA — A single, traumatic injury is associated with more psychiatric diagnoses and more psychotropic medication prescriptions among adolescents than among those uninjured, according to a large, prospective, cohort study.Traumatic Injury in Teens Ups Psychiatric DiagnosisDAMIAN McNAMARA10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70050-5Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Mental Health4444http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700517/abstract?rss=yesLOS ANGELES — A new nationwide study has begun to shed light on the complex relationship between personality disorders, and substance use onset and dependence. The odds of alcohol dependence, drug abuse/dependence, and nicotine dependence were elevated for people with any personality disorder in the National Epidemiologic Survey of Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC), a longitudinal study of more than 43,000 Americans, reported Deborah S. Hasin, Ph.D., professor of clinical public health at Columbia University New York.Personality Disorders Elevate Risk of Substance AbuseBETSY BATES10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70051-7Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Mental Health4444http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700529/abstract?rss=yesWarnings related to the risk of sudden death and cardiac dysrhythmias associated with desipramine have been added to the label of the tricyclic antidepressant, according to the Food and Drug Administration.Safety Warnings Added to Desipramine LabelELIZABETH MECHCATIE10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70052-9Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Mental Health4545http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700530/abstract?rss=yesSAN ANTONIO — Women who were moderate to heavy drinkers had a 1.3-fold increase in breast cancer recurrence, compared with those who abstained or drank only minimally, according to a study presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium.Drinking Elevates Breast Cancer Recurrence RiskBETSY BATES10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70053-0Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Women's Health4646http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700542/abstract?rss=yesSAN ANTONIO — Six months on a mixed soy isoflavone dietary supplement produced no significant change in breast epithelial cell proliferation in healthy women at high risk for breast cancer in a phase IIb randomized trial.Soy Strikes Out for Breast Cancer Risk ReductionBRUCE JANCIN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70054-2Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Women's Health4747http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700554/abstract?rss=yesSAN ANTONIO — Stellate ganglion block may be an option for severe, treatment-refractory hot flashes and sleep disturbances in breast cancer patients. In a prospective study, stellate ganglion block procedures led to significant improvements in 17 of 24 breast cancer patients with severe hot flashes despite pharmacotherapy with venlafaxine (Effexor) and/or clonidine, Dr. Patrick Neven reported at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium.Stellate Ganglion Block May Ease Severe Hot FlashesBRUCE JANCIN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70055-4Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Women's Health4747http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700566/abstract?rss=yes Major findings: In a sample of women with BRCA1 and -2 mutation, 13% of invasive cancers in an MRI surveillance group were node positive, compared with 40% in controls.MRI Detected Breast Cancer Earlier in High-Risk WomenBRUCE JANCIN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70056-6Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Women's Health4747http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700578/abstract?rss=yesPHILADELPHIA — A set of either five or six criteria helped physicians identify patients with back pain who had a high likelihood of having spondyloarthritis in a German study involving 322 patients.Criteria Narrowed for Spotting Spondyloarthritis: HLA-B27 patients who met 3 criteria had SpA with a sensitivity of 79% and a specificity of 60%.MITCHEL L. ZOLER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70057-8Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Musculoskeletal Disorders4848http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS030070731070058X/abstract?rss=yesCHICAGO — Percutaneous disc decompression may resolve back pain and weakness caused by a herniated spinal disc, according to a study that compared the minimally invasive procedure with conservative therapy.Study Hints at Efficacy of Percutaneous Disc DecompressionRICHARD HYER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70058-XFamily Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Musculoskeletal Disorders4848http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700591/abstract?rss=yesPHILADELPHIA — Statin use was linked with a significant reduction in the incidence of rheumatoid arthritis in a retrospective, observational study of about 200,000 people in Israel.Statin Use May Lower Rheumatoid Arthritis RiskMITCHEL L. ZOLER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70059-1Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Musculoskeletal Disorders4949http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700608/abstract?rss=yes DR. FUDMAN is in private practice in Austin, Texas. He reports that he has no conflicts of interest. The price of colchicine is increasing by 50-fold, from about $0.10 per tablet to $5 per tablet, unless physicians and patients can convince the Food and Drug Administration to allow the colchicine made by generic manufacturers to stay on the market. A twice-daily dose of colchicine will increase from $6/month to $300/month because one company has taken advantage of FDA rules and the orphan drug law to the detriment of patients.Colchicine Deal Unfair to PatientsEDWARD FUDMAN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70060-8Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Expert Commentary5050http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS030070731070061X/abstract?rss=yesSAN DIEGO — Microvesicular steatosis may be more common in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease than previously thought and is associated with markers of severe disease, a study of 1,022 biopsies suggests.Microvesicular Steatosis Found in 10% NAFLDSHERRY BOSCHERT10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70061-XFamily Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Digestive Disorders5151http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700621/abstract?rss=yesBOSTON — A gene signature that predicts survival after surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma also predicts the outcome of liver cirrhosis, a study has shown. “The findings suggest that we might be able to identify patients who need preventive treatment for advanced cirrhosis and possibly hepatocellular carcinoma,” Dr. Yujin Hoshida said at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.Gene Signature Appears to Predict Cirrhosis OutcomesDIANA MAHONEY10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70062-1Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Digestive Disorders5151http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700633/abstract?rss=yesPegylated interferon alpha-2a appears to induce a significantly better sustained virologic response than interferon alpha-2b, when combined with ribavirin in patients with chronic hepatitis C, Dr. Maria Grazia Rumi and her colleagues reported.Interferon Alpha-2a Trumps Alpha-2b for Chronic Hepatitis CMARY ANN MOON10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70063-3Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Digestive Disorders5151http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700645/abstract?rss=yes Major finding: In the community-based setting, surveillance colonoscopy is substantially overused for low-risk patients, but it is underused for those with advanced lesions, according to current guidelines.Follow-Up Colonoscopy Standards Vary WidelyMARY ANN MOON10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70064-5Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Digestive Disorders5252http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700657/abstract?rss=yesNATIONAL HARBOR, MD. — Lubiprostone significantly improved spontaneous bowel movement frequency and associated symptoms in a multicenter, open-label study of 109 children with functional constipation.Lubiprostone Provides Capsule Option for Constipation in KidsMIRIAM E. TUCKER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70065-7Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Digestive Disorders5252http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700669/abstract?rss=yesSAN DIEGO — Malnutrition was as likely in adults with inflammatory bowel disease as it was in children, a study of data on 385 patients has shown. The investigators were surprised to find statistically similar rates of malnutrition in 264 adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), compared with 121 pediatric cases—9% vs. 10%, respectively, Valerie Marcil, Ph.D., reported in an award-winning poster presentation at the annual meeting of the American College of Gastroenterology.Malnutrition Found Common In Adults, Children With IBDSHERRY BOSCHERT10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70066-9Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Digestive Disorders5252http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700670/abstract?rss=yesA variation in the MMP12 gene appears to be associated with beneficial pulmonary effects in children who have asthma and in adults who smoke, particularly smokers with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, according to a study.Gene Variant Deemed Protective of the LungsMARY ANN MOON10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70067-0Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Pulmonary Medicine5858http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700682/abstract?rss=yesProteins detectable in urine may offer a relatively simple screening target to identify children with obstructive sleep apnea, a study of 120 children suggests. Dr. David Gozal of the University of Chicago and associates studied 90 children referred to a pediatric sleep medicine center in Louisville, Ky., for evaluation of habitual snoring and suspected sleep-disordered breathing. A total of 60 children met polysomnographic and clinical criteria for OSA, while 30 had primary snoring. The study also included as controls 30 children who didn't snore.Urine Test May Identify Obstructive Sleep ApneaTERRY RUDD10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70068-2Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Pulmonary Medicine5959http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700694/abstract?rss=yesMONTREAL — Primary care patients with asthma face a significantly increased risk of developing depression, compared with the nonasthmatic population, according to a longitudinal study.Asthma Tied to Increased Risk For DepressionKate Johnson10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70069-4Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Pulmonary Medicine5959http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700700/abstract?rss=yesORLANDO — Bariatric surgery produces rapid, dramatic improvements in obese adolescents, but after the first 6 months post surgery these patients appear to hit a wall and further gains in their clinical status usually do not occur, according to a follow-up study of 44 patients.Bariatric Surgery Benefits Plateau After 6 Months: Weight loss and cardiovascular risk factors were measured in 44 teens followed 1 year.MITCHEL L. ZOLER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70070-0Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Obesity6060http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700712/abstract?rss=yesORLANDO — A growing number of American children have increased left ventricular mass, a marker for cardiovascular disease risk. The finding was noted in a study that included 700 children and “is the first study to look at average left ventricular mass in the whole pediatric population,” according to Dr. David I. Crowley, a pediatric cardiologist at Cincinnati Children's Hospital.Rise in Ventricular Hypertrophy May Be Tied to ObesityMITCHEL L. ZOLER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70071-2Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Obesity6060http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700724/abstract?rss=yesORLANDO — A behavioral lifestyle intervention focused on diet and exercise in obese individuals with type 2 diabetes resulted in an impressive reduction in elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels at 1 year in the Look AHEAD investigation.Lifestyle Changes Cut CRP in Obese DiabeticsBRUCE JANCIN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70072-4Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Obesity6161http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700736/abstract?rss=yes DR. ROME is section head of adolescent medicine at Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital. She specializes in obesity treatment and directs the hospital's obesity programs that include multidisciplinary input from pediatric cardiologists, pediatric gastroenterologists, and nutrition therapists. To comment, e-mail her at fpnews@elsevier.com.The Overweight Child With HypertensionELLEN ROME10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70073-6Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Expert Commentary6161http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700748/abstract?rss=yesCHICAGO — One in four elderly patients discharged to an institution after undergoing elective surgery died within 6 months, investigators found in a study designed to identify the incidence of and risk factors for postoperative admission to a skilled nursing center, rehabilitation center, or nursing home.Discharge to Institution Tied to Mortality RiskDAMIAN McNAMARA10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70074-8Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Geriatric Medicine6767http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS030070731070075X/abstract?rss=yesORLANDO — High blood levels of a brain natriuretic peptide were associated with poor cognitive function in a study of 950 community-dwelling, healthy, elderly adults. “This is the first time this [association] has been shown,” Dr. Lori B. Daniels said at the annual scientific sessions of the American Heart Association.Cognitive Function Linked To Brain Hormone LevelsMITCHEL L. ZOLER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70075-XFamily Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Geriatric Medicine6767http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700761/abstract?rss=yesBETHESDA, MD. — Current trends in the increase in the number of Americans aged 65 years and older could have significant implications for managing substance abuse in this population.Alcohol and Substance Abuse Trends Upward as Boomers AgeRENÉE MATTHEWS10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70076-1Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Geriatric Medicine6767http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700773/abstract?rss=yesOverall cancer incidence and mortality rates are declining in the United States, according to a report issued by the National Cancer Institute. These reductions are attributed mostly to decreases in both incidence and mortality for lung, prostate, and colorectal cancer in men, and breast and colorectal cancer in women. For all types of cancers combined, new diagnoses dropped an average of almost 1% per year from 1999 to 2006, and deaths from cancer declined an average of 1.6% per year from 2001 to 2006.Malignancy Incidence, Mortality Rates DecliningJOYCE FRIEDEN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70077-3Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Cancer6868http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700785/abstract?rss=yesSAN ANTONIO — Women who were premenopausal at diagnosis of early-stage breast cancer and subsequently completed 5 years of adjuvant tamoxifen derived additional benefit from extended aromatase inhibitor therapy, according to a new secondary analysis of a landmark clinical trial.Extended Hormone Therapy May Be of BenefitBRUCE JANCIN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70078-5Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Cancer6969http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700797/abstract?rss=yesRice cereal has traditionally been the first complementary food given to American infants, but there is no good reason not to introduce meats, vegetables, and fruits as the first complementary foods.Complementary Foods Move Beyond Rice CerealKERRI WACHTER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70079-7Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Nutrition7071http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700803/abstract?rss=yes Major Findings: Seizures declined by a mean of 29% during active stimulation with the device over the first 12 weeks, compared with a 14% reduction during sham activation.Implant Short Circuits Some Epileptic SeizuresDIANA MAHONEY10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70080-3Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Neurologic Disorders7272http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700815/abstract?rss=yes Major Findings: Using a decision-support tool, nearly 21% of 2,646 clinical scenarios created from different combinations of patient-level factors were considered appropriate for evaluation for epilepsy surgery. None of the surgeries was rated as unnecessary.Online Tool Could Streamline Surgical Referrals for EpilepsyDIANA MAHONEY10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70081-5Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Neurologic Disorders7272http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700827/abstract?rss=yes DR. SKOLNIK is an associate director of the Family Medicine Residency Program at Abington (Pa.) Memorial Hospital. DR. BARRETT is a third-year resident in the program The Third International Conference on Concussion in Sports, which was held in Zurich, featured a multidisciplinary discussion to identify best practices based on current evidence (Clin. J. Sport Med. 2009;19:185–200). Here is a quick look at the main findings:Concussion in SportNEIL S. SKOLNIK, BRYAN BARRETT10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70082-7Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Clinical Guidelines for Family Physicians7475http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700839/abstract?rss=yesNEW ORLEANS — Nearly two-thirds of 9,675 medical patients at risk for venous thromboembolism received no inpatient pharmacologic prophylaxis and more than 98% received no outpatient prophylaxis, a retrospective analysis showed.Inpatient, Outpatient VTE Prophylaxis NeglectedPATRICE WENDLING10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70083-9Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Clinical Rounds7676http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700840/abstract?rss=yesNEW ORLEANS — Rivaroxaban, an oral anticoagulant that does not require monitoring, produced a dramatic long-term decline in recurrent venous thromboembolism in results from the EINSTEIN-Extension Study.Fixed-Dose Rivaroxaban Slashes Risk of VTESUSAN LONDON10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70084-0Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Clinical Rounds7777http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700852/abstract?rss=yesOver the past few years, there has been a sea change in how state governments and some physicians think about marijuana as a medicine. Most recently, the American Medical Association's House of Delegates approved a policy recommending that the federal government review its classification of marijuana. Its current designation, as a Schedule I controlled substance, limits the ability of researchers to evaluate the drug's usefulness as a medical therapy, the AMA said. The new AMA policy states that the goal of the reclassification should be to ease the conduct of clinical research and the development of cannabinoid-based medicines and alternative delivery models.AMA Backs Medical Marijuana for ResearchMARY ELLEN SCHNEIDER10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70085-2Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Practice Trends7878http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700864/abstract?rss=yesWant more health reform news? Subscribe to our podcast – search ‘Policy & Practice’ in the iTunes store New Jersey's Division of Consumer Affairs has called on state lawmakers to take a variety of steps, such as banning pharmaceutical company–sponsored meals for physicians, in an effort to curb doctors' conflicts of interest when they prescribe drugs. The division urged 22 reforms, most to be enforced by the N.J. Board of Medical Examiners, that would forbid physicians from accepting free trips, gifts, or meals and would require them to disclose any industry payments over $200 for consulting. However, the proposed regulations would continue to allow pharmaceutical representatives to distribute free drug samples. The consumer affairs division also urged new restrictions on the mining of prescriber-identifiable data and said it wants the lawmakers to ban the sale of such data.Policy & PracticeJane Anderson10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70086-4Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Practice Trends7878http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700876/abstract?rss=yesCOLLEGE PARK, MD. — Special training in safe prescription of long-acting opioid drugs, as well as the use of patient-prescriber agreements, could be required to earn federal approval to prescribe such products, under proposals discussed by an industry working group.Mandatory Training Debated for Opioid SafetyELIZABETH MECHCATIE10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70087-6Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Practice Trends7979http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700888/abstract?rss=yesMost primary care practices are not large enough for significant differences in performance to be assessed using national quality and cost benchmarks, according to a report. Nationally, fewer than 2% of all primary care practices were able to be reliably assessed because their caseloads were too small. Even when their case loads were pooled with those of other physicians in the practice, and even if 2–3 years' worth of cases were included, the numbers were too small to reliably assess quality, according to David J. Nyweide, Ph.D., of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and his associates.Most Practices Found Too Small for AssessmentMARY ANN MOON10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70088-8Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Practice Trends8081http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS030070731070089X/abstract?rss=yes DR. FEERO is special adviser to the director of the National Human Genome Research Institute and is also a faculty member of the Maine Dartmouth Family Medicine Residency Program in Fairfield, Maine.Translational ResearchGREG FEERO10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70089-XFamily Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Genomic Medicine8282http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700906/abstract?rss=yesDENVER — Incorrect patient identification information is still the No. 1 reason for rejected insurance claims, and the majority of these errors—which cost the nation an estimated $2.2 billion in administrative waste—reflect the failure of the health care industry to embrace standardized, machine-readable magnetic ID cards.Group Pushes for Machine-Readable ID CardsERIK L. GOLDMAN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70090-6Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Practice Trends8383http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700918/abstract?rss=yesA public-private institution launched by the Department of Health and Human Services would be the best way to raise standards and quality for continuing health education, according to a report issued by the Institute of Medicine.IOM Eyes the Creation of a Continuing Education InstituteJOYCE FRIEDEN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70091-8Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Practice Trends8383http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS030070731070092X/abstract?rss=yesBETHESDA, MD. — Few board certification examinations require physicians to understand concepts related to genetic testing and counseling or how to take or interpret family history, according to an analysis of the content outlines of such exams for 43 medical specialties.Board Certification Exams Lacking on GeneticsJEFF EVANS10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70092-XFamily Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Practice Trends8585http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700931/abstract?rss=yesFive years ago, Dr. Eva Briggs became a search and rescue volunteer in Tompkins County, N.Y., a hilly region in the central part of the state marked by gorges, hardwoods, farmland, and a population of more than 101,000.Search and Rescue With a K-9 NoseDoug Brunk10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70093-1Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3The Rest of Your Life8686http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700943/abstract?rss=yesThe Health and Human Services Department has released long-awaited, proposed “meaningful use” criteria for providers interested in receiving bonuses of up to $64,000 for installing or upgrading electronic health information systems.HHS Issues ‘Meaningful Use’ Criteria for EHR SystemsJOYCE FRIEDEN10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70094-3Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Practice Trends8686http://www.familypracticenews.com/article/PIIS0300707310700955/abstract?rss=yesPhysicians who oppose H1N1 vaccination are in the minority, but their position is supported by an unlikely ally—bacteria, said Prof. Eshel Ben-Jacob, a physicist at Tel Aviv University. “Unlike our health authorities, bacteria would never panic. Bacteria don't follow the media or watch cable news … And based on what we've seen in bacterial colonies, I know they would be suspicious committing to swine flu shots,” he said in a statement released by the American Friends of Tel Aviv University. In a recent study, Prof. Ben-Jacob and his associates explored the decision-making processes of bacteria (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 2009;106:21027–34). Bacteria, he noted, “don't take risks like we do, and the results have paid off. They are supersuccessful, more than any creature on earth. They wouldn't abuse the stock market and would never invest beyond their means. I am also pretty sure most would not rush to get the flu shot.”IndicationsRichard Franki10.1016/S0300-7073(10)70095-5Family Practice News 40, 1 (2010)2010-01-01Family Practice News2010-01-01401S0300-7073(10)X7001-3Practice Trends8787