DANIEL j. wattendorf, maj, mc, usaf, and donald w. hadley, m.s.

The three-generation pedigree is the most efficient way to assess hereditary influences on disease. It can help family physicians identify relatively rare conditions that may not be considered in a differential diagnosis, which allows for earlier diagnosis and more aggressive management.

Editorial: Genomic Medicine for Underserved Minority Populations in Family Medicine

SUSAN A. MEHNERT-KAY, M.D.

Although the incidence of urinary tract infections has not changed significantly over the last decade, the diagnostic criteria, bacterial resistance patterns, and treatment recommendations have evolved.

Patient information: "Urinary Tract Infections: What You Should Know," p. 458

RICHARD S. SAFEER, M.D., and JANN KEENAN, ED.S.

Health literacy is defined as basic reading and numeric skills that allow a person to function in the health care environment. Even though most adults read at an eighth-grade level and 20 percent of the population reads at or below a fifth-grade level, most health care materials are written at a 10th-grade level.

Editorial: "The Role of Literacy in Health and Health Care," p. 387

FRANCES BIAGIOLI, M.D.

Child safety seats and automobile safety belts protect children in a crash if they are used correctly, but if a child does not fit in the restraint correctly, it can lead to injury. Family physicians caring for children should know what safety seats are available and which types of seats are safest.

Patient information: "Car Safety for Your Child," p. 479