In the News


New research on booster doses, breakthrough infections, long-term COVID-19 symptoms

A vaccine booster significantly reduced risk of severe disease or death from COVID-19, full vaccination provided more protection than previous infection, many patients reporting persistent symptoms did not have antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, and a trial of outpatient treatment was ineffective, recent studies found.

Flexible sigmoidoscopy associated with long-term reduction in colorectal cancer incidence, mortality

Colorectal cancer incidence and mortality were reduced by about 20% in patients who were randomized to receive once-only flexible sigmoidoscopy screening between the ages of 55 to 64 years instead of usual care.

MKSAP Quiz: Follow-up for stable chronic kidney disease

A 57-year-old man is evaluated during follow-up for stable chronic kidney disease diagnosed 1 year ago. He also has type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and peripheral artery disease. On physical examination, blood pressure is 128/74 mm Hg, pulse rate is 65/min, and respiration rate is 18/min. Bilateral carotid and lower abdominal quadrant bruits are heard. Peripheral extremity pulses are diminished. The remainder of the examination is normal. After laboratory studies, what is the appropriate management?

DOACs may be safe, effective for VTE prevention in patients with higher weight, BMI

Patients with first-time venous thromboembolism (VTE) who weighed 120 kg or more and had a body mass index (BMI) of 40 kg/m2 or more were not at higher risk for bleeding or recurrent VTE with direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) versus warfarin.

Few internal medicine residency programs provide clinical opioid-related training

A 2019 survey of members of the Association of Program Directors in Internal Medicine found that while 82% of programs required some training in safe opioid prescribing and opioid use disorder treatment, few programs required clinical experiences.

ACP co-sponsors $400,000 grant program to support innovations in diversity, equity and inclusion

Now through Dec. 1, internal medicine residents and faculty members can apply for funding to support new or existing programs that promote trust and create a more equitable health system by incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusion.

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.