November 1, 2009

Primary care plays an important role in the early diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus through routine screening. Family physicians are also often key in preventing treatment complications and drug interactions, as well as detecting and treating opportunistic diseases.

Cardiac rehabilitation programs are underutilized, even though they are beneficial in reducing the effects of cardiovascular disease. Components of comprehensive programs can help patients control blood pressure, diabetes, depression, and lipid levels; increase physical…

Patients with disabilities may require home modifications to retain their independence and remain safely in their home. Environmental and technologic adaptations can assist patients with conditions such as hearing loss, vision loss, and dementia. Family physicians should be…

Diverticular bleeding is the most common cause of lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Diagnostic tests, such as colonoscopy, radionuclide imaging, and arteriography, can determine the cause of bleeding and guide treatment. To control bleeding, physicians should consider endoscopic…

Organizations Encourage Seasonal Flu Vaccine, H1N1 Vaccine for Pregnant Women | Physician Workforce Report Addresses Planning, Distribution, and Funding Needs | AAFP Focuses on Education in Second Phase of Pertussis Awareness Campaign | Survey Shows Medical Students Consider…

The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) Guideline for the Detection and Management of Post-Myocardial Infarction Depression highlights the importance of identifying and treating depression in patients who have recently experienced myocardial infarction (MI).1 To…

Like most journals, AFP relies on the expertise and generous contributions of our many peer reviewers. The peer review process helps improve the quality of articles, and maintain the high standards for which AFP is known. Peer reviewers are that “other set of eyes” that can…

A single observational study found no evidence that antibiotic prophylaxis reduces the incidence of bacterial endocarditis in high-risk patients about to undergo an invasive dental procedure. It is also uncertain if the potential harms and costs of antibiotics outweigh any…

The low glycemic index diet (sometimes called a low glycemic load diet) lowered the A1C level by a weighted mean difference of 0.5 percent when compared with a high glycemic index (or glycemic load) diet. Fewer episodes of hypoglycemia occurred with a low glycemic index diet…

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

In 1973, the American Medical Association defined the impaired physician as one who is unable to fulfill professional and personal responsibilities because of a psychiatric illness, alcoholism, or drug dependency. Physicians face the challenge of being able to identify…

Cerumen, or earwax, is normally expelled from the ear canal by a self-cleaning mechanism assisted by jaw movement. Physicians should diagnose impaction only when an accumulation of cerumen is associated with symptoms (e.g., otalgia, tinnitus, vertigo) or prevents necessary…

Cardiac rehabilitation (REE-huh-BILL-uh-TAY-shun) is a program for patients with heart disease. Its goal is to limit (or reverse) damage to the heart and improve quality of life.

You may be able to keep living at home if you have a disability. However, you may need to make some changes to your home so that it is easier for you to get around safely. These changes can also make it easier for your caregiver to help you.