Practicing health promotion: the doctor's dilemma
Article Abstract:
The public views physicians as an important source of medical information, and surveys have indicated that the information received from physicians is regarded as the most reliable. Why then do physicians not take a larger role in preventive medicine and the promotion of healthier life styles? There may be several reasons. Physicians perceive that the public may not appreciate comments on life-styles. The time spent giving such advice is significant, and represents lost income for the physician, as this time is not reimbursed. While many physicians have incorporated better diets and exercise into their own lives, in one survey over half responded that they regard such measures as lowering fat and salt consumption and reducing sugar intake as not very important. Physicians may also be cautious about recommending preventive measures for which the scientific evidence is modest, or perhaps lacking. As satisfying as it may be to cure a sick patient, it is clear that prevention is an important part of medical care and physicians must become directly involved. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1990
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Failing the screen test
Article Abstract:
Screening large sections of the population for illnesses which they are not aware of having may seem like good preventative practice, however, it should only be done for conditions about which something can be done, or which will be life-threatening. Many patients who undergo prostate screening or cholesterol testing will not die of the condition, but the stress of knowing about their illness may severely affect their quality of life, and they may start to take medication for extended periods. Screening must be much more carefully evaluated before it is introduced as standard.
Publication Name: Nursing Times
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0954-7762
Year: 1997
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Mass media antismoking campaigns: a powerful tool for health promotion
Article Abstract:
Media campaigns to dissuade youths from smoking have been and can be effective tools for the betterment of public health if funding can be maintained at high enough level. In recent years, the most effective campaigns have been the most controversial, those which directly attack the tobacco industry. The tobacco industry, in return, has attacked the sources of funding through extensive use of their own propaganda and political influences.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1998
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