Dtsch Arztebl Int
-
Because of improved survival rates and recent advances in reproductive medicine, fertility preservation methods in women of reproductive age with malignant or autoimmune diseases have risen in importance. ⋯ Girls and women up to age 40 who are about to undergo gonadotoxic treatment should be counseled about the availability of fertility-preserving techniques and, if appropriate, should be treated with such techniques in a specialized center.
-
Immediate-release nifedipine is on the PRISCUS list of drugs that should not be given to elderly patients. We studied the use of this calcium-channel blocker under real-life conditions. ⋯ Our analysis demonstrates that immediate-release nifedipine is being prescribed to elderly patients in Germany, albeit mostly in a single administration. In view of the risks and the availability of alternative drugs, stricter adherence to the PRISCUS recommendations in this case should be stressed in continuing medical education.
-
Many cancer patients suffer from cancer-related fatigue (CRF) both during and after their treatment. CRF can arise at any point in the course of the disease and can be either self-limited or persistent, sometimes for years. It gives rise to a vicious circle of impaired physical performance, avoidance of exertion, inactivity, inadequate physical recovery, helplessness, and depressed mood. Its hallmarks are tiredness, exhaustion, and lack of energy; it can impair performance so severely that the patient is unable to work. It is associated with increased mortality. Cancer patients are hardly ever systematically asked about the symptoms and signs of CRF. The stress and impairments that it produces are often inadequately appreciated, and the opportunities for treatment often neglected. ⋯ Cancer-related fatigue is a serious problem that impairs patients physically, mentally, and socially. Physicians need to know how to recognize and treat it.
-
The generally high job-related stress level among physicians may lead to various health impairments in the long run. Apart from job-related stress, stress during leisure time and certain personality traits might be risk factors for health impairments. However, very little research on the health situation of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Germany is available. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to systematically assess the stress experience and the health situation of German PCPs. One main focus was on mental health. ⋯ All in all, it appears that mental health impairments are a common health problem among the PCPs. Target-group-specific measures should be taken in order to reduce the subjective stress level, and to foster mental hygiene. Furthermore, the development of favorable personality profiles and the corresponding behavioral patterns should be supported.