SHOBHA S. RAO, M.D.

Falls, which are associated with increased morbidity and mortality, are a common threat to the independence of older persons. Strategies that involve multifactorial risk assessment and interventions are most effective in preventing falls.

Patient information: "How to Prevent Falling," p. 93

MICAH L. THORP, D.O., M.P.H.

Diabetes has become the leading cause of end-stage renal disease in the United States. Early treatment delays or prevents the onset of diabetic nephropathy, but there is insufficient evidence to determine whether tight blood sugar control and use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors prevent or delay end-stage kidney failure.

Patient information: "Diabetic Nephropathy," p. 100

Complementary and alternative medicine

ELLEN TATTELMAN, M.D.

Garlic has long been used medicinally, most recently for its cardiovascular, antineoplastic, and antimicrobial properties. Side effects generally are mild and uncommon.

DANIEL J. WATTENDORF, MAJ, MC, USAF, and MAXIMILIAN MUENKE, M.D.

Fragile X syndrome is caused by a mutation in the Fragile X mental retardation 1 gene that can lead to mental retardation. Premature ovarian failure and ataxia may be present in some relatives of persons with fragile X syndrome. It is important to diagnose affected patients as early as possible to provide early intervention and supportive care, and to inform parents for future family planning.

Editorial: "Genetic Testing: When to Test, When to Refer," p. 33

SURAJ A. ACHAR, M.D., SURITI KUNDU, M.D., and WILLIAM A. NORCROSS, M.D.

In a patient presenting with symptoms that suggest acute coronary syndrome, the initial assessment requires a focused history (including risk factor analysis), a physical examination, an electrocardiogram, and, frequently, serum cardiac marker determinations.

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