Background

Evolving techniques and better understanding of coronary artery disease have changed outcomes for patients with severe coronary artery disease over the last two decades. The American College of Cardiology Foundation recently published an evidence-based reassessment of the role of coronary bypass surgery to guide clinical decision making.... »

A dozen years into the 21st century, trend lines are beginning to reveal the future of our health care system. As we begin the 15th year of this column, we offer some thoughts and predictions for physicians and their patients in the years ahead.

P Financial reality trumps tradition. As state governments cut Medicaid programs, they’re concurrently planning... »

Background. Gastroesphageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common conditions affecting adults. One study of an employed population showed a prevalence of about 4%, costing employers more than $3,000 per employee-year over 3 years, more than half of which is due to pharmacy costs. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has recently... »

Issues around screening and treatment of vitamin D deficiency have been very controversial in recent years. The Endocrine Society recently published an evidence-based guideline aimed at helping determine who should be screened and receive vitamin D replacement.

Conclusions

The Institute of Medicine recently endorsed the historical definition of... »

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive interstitial process of increasing prevalence. The American Thoracic Society recently collaborated with three international specialty societies to update diagnostic and therapeutic practice guidelines for this condition.

Conclusions

IPF usually presents after age 50 years with unexplained... »

Background

Hypertension affects most people older than age 65 years. The American College of Cardiology, in collaboration with several partner organizations, issued an expert consensus document on the evaluation and treatment of hypertension in seniors. The document provides consensus, rather than rigorous evidence-based guidance. Most clinical trials... »

Persons who survive a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) are at increased risk of subsequent stroke; approximately 25% of the 795,000 annual strokes in the United States are recurrent events. The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association recently published evidence-based primary and secondary ischemic stroke prevention guidelines.... »