April 1, 2009

Most infants require term formula with iron, but a wide variety of formulas are available. Physicians can educate parents about formula choices, as well as identify infants who would benefit from specialized formula.

Evidence suggests that green tea is effective in the treatment of genital warts. Some studies have shown that green tea may help prevent certain cancers, stroke, and cardiovascular disease, but the evidence is conflicting. Green tea is available in beverage, liquid and solid…

Evidence on several popular commercial diets has made it easier for physicians to counsel patients about the health benefits and risks of such plans. Physicians should emphasize diets that are rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthful fatty acids and that limit saturated fat…

Epididymitis and orchitis cause gradual onset of scrotal pain and urinary tract symptoms. Empiric treatment should be initiated based on the likely pathogens. If testicular torsion is suspected, urgent referral to a urologist is warranted.

In this issue of American Family Physician, Walker and Reamy review many of today's most popular diets.1 In addition to inquiries about these specific diets, physicians may be asked about vegetarian diets in general. Patients may have many reasons for their interest in a…

Obama Seeks Input from AAFP President During White House Health Care Summit | Primary Care Physicians Capable of Performing Safe, Effective Colonoscopies | Budget Proposal Calls for $329 Billion to Block Cuts in Medicare Payment Rates | Agencies Receive Funding to Research High…

The personal side of medicine told from the patient's perspective. The patient's story is followed by commentary from a physician and a list of resources.

A 62-year-old man presents to the emergency department with substernal chest pain and associated dyspnea. Changes on electrocardiography (ECG) are noted, and his first set of cardiac enzymes are mildly elevated. The medical team wonders if the patient should receive heparin in…

Physical activity improves cardiovascular fitness in persons older than 55 years. Cognitive speed and auditory and visual attention are increased in healthy older adults who exercise.

Photo Quiz presents readers with a clinical challenge based on a photograph or other image.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released guidelines on the prevention of herpes zoster (i.e., shingles).

Breastfeeding gives your baby the best nutrition, but formula can be used if you are unable to or choose not to breastfeed. Formula gives your baby most of the calories, vitamins, and protein he or she needs. It also gives your baby all the liquids he or she needs. Formula…

Eating too much food high in saturated fats or simple sugars can lead to heart disease. But eating certain foods can lower your risk. A “heart-healthy” diet limits the amount of foods that put you at risk for heart disease and allows you to eat plenty of the foods that keep…