Dtsch Arztebl Int
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Quality of Life, Fatigue, and Sleep Problems in Pancreatic Cancer Patients—A Randomized Trial on the Effects of Exercise
Improving quality of life (QoL) is an important treatment goal in pancreatic cancer patients. Although the beneficial effects of exercise on QoL are well understood, few studies have investigated more aggressive cancers such as pancreatic cancer. ⋯ This first randomized resistance training trial in pancreatic cancer patients indicated clinically relevant improve- ments in QoL after 3 but not after 6 months. Given the severity of pancreatic cancer, exercise recommendations may already commence at surgery.
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Insufficient data are available on the administrative incidence and prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in Germany, as well as on its comorbidities, diagnostic evaluation, treatment, and costs. ⋯ Patients with IBS in Germany are likely not receiving sufficient diag- nostic evaluation in conformity with the relevant guidelines. The high prevalence of comorbid mental disorders and other pain syndromes implies that the complaints of patients with IBS need to be more comprehensively evaluated and treated.
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Motorcycle accidents account for a large fraction of the patients with polytrauma treated in German hospitals. Clinical experience indicates that an in- creasing number of older motorcyclists are having accidents. We studied whether such individuals are subject to higher mortality and longer hospital stays. ⋯ Patients over age 65 who sustain trauma in motorcycle accidents have a higher mortality, a longer duration of ventilation, and longer stays in the intensive care unit and in the hospital overall than their younger counterparts. These patients present a special challenge to the treating medical team.