Family practice
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There are substantial differences in hospital referrals between general practitioners (GPs); however, there is little research on the consequences for patient safety and further healthcare use. ⋯ GPs' prior admission proportion was strongly associated with unplanned hospital admissions. We found little effects on 30-day mortality, but more restrictive referral practices may threaten patient safety through missing out on critical cases.
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Men are more likely to develop benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and gout as they age. However, the role of alpha-1-adrenergic antagonists, the medication for BPH, in the development of gout is uncertain. ⋯ Patients who received more doses of alpha-1-adrenergic antagonists per year had a higher risk of developing gout. A causal proof of the role of alpha-1-adrenergic antagonists use in gout development should be analysed in future studies designed as double blind randomized controlled trials.
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Underweight among adolescents is an important clinical and public health issue. It is associated with adverse health outcomes throughout the life-span and may reflect food poverty, unhealthy eating habits, or some underlying health conditions. ⋯ The prevalence of underweight in 11- to 15-year-olds was significantly higher among girls than boys. The prevalence remained stable from 1998 to 2018. There was no significant association between SES and prevalence of underweight. It is important to elucidate the underlying causes of underweight such as malnutrition, eating disorders, eating problems, loss of appetite, chronic diseases, insufficient knowledge of nutrients effects on bodily functions, and persistent pain.
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Children and youth whose lives intersect with child welfare systems are amongst the most vulnerable paediatric populations. Despite the increased rates of chronic conditions, these children and youth often experience unmet health care needs. ⋯ Our study revealed disparities in health care utilization amongst children in the care of child welfare in comparison to those who are not, highlighting the need for improved practice, policy, and research initiatives. A collaborative data collection/sharing system is needed to identify and track the health care of this vulnerable population.
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As the proportion of women in family medicine increases, their well-being and job satisfaction become concerns. ⋯ Women family physicians around the world are overall satisfied with their careers. However, variation in certain working conditions among countries leaves room for improvement, drawing attention to the need for national review of working environments and pay scales.