In the News


E-cigarette users may be exposed to fewer carcinogens, toxins than smokers, study finds

Researchers measured and compared the biomarker levels of 181 participants in five groups: long-term tobacco smokers, former smokers with long-term e-cigarette-only or nicotine replacement therapy-only use, and those with long-term dual use of cigarettes and e-cigarettes or cigarettes and nicotine replacement therapy.

ACP issues comprehensive statement on U.S. immigration policy

The statement details ACP's opposition to discrimination, religious tests, refugee bans, and denial of entry to persons with legal visas and expresses grave concerns about the implications of the recent executive order on medical education, access to health care services, public health, and families.

MKSAP Quiz: itching lasting 5 months

A 53-year-old man is evaluated for whole-body itching lasting 5 months that is not improved by a short course of emollients and antihistamine medication. Review of systems is negative. He does not take any medications. On physical examination, excoriations are noted on his legs, shoulders, and back; the remainder of the examination is normal. After normal results on laboratory tests, what is the most appropriate next step in management?

Adult immunization schedule released for 2017

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has released its 2017 Recommended Immunization Schedule for adults, with changes to influenza, human papillomavirus, hepatitis B, and meningococcal vaccinations.

Lung cancer screening requires intensive effort, incidental findings and inappropriate use common

In a clinical demonstration project at eight academic Veterans Health Administration hospitals, researchers looked at percentages of patients who agreed to undergo lung cancer screening, had positive findings on low-dose CT scans, were diagnosed with lung cancer, or had incidental findings.

PQRS and Meaningful Use deadline approaching: Act now to avoid financial penalties

Practices have until 5 p.m. ET on Feb. 28 to enter their 2016 Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS) data and avoid penalties on their 2018 Medicare payments.

And the winner is …

ACP Internist Weekly has tallied the voting from its latest cartoon contest, where readers are invited to match wits against their peers to provide the most original and amusing caption.