Journal of general internal medicine
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Although a number of studies have examined the respiratory impact of marijuana smoking, such studies have generally used convenience samples of marijuana and tobacco users. The current study examined respiratory effects of marijuana and tobacco use in a nationally representative sample while controlling for age, gender, and current asthma. ⋯ The impact of marijuana smoking on respiratory health has some significant similarities to that of tobacco smoking. Efforts to prevent and reduce marijuana use, such as advising patients to quit and providing referrals for support and assistance, may have substantial public health benefits associated with decreased respiratory health problems.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Valdecoxib for treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. A randomized, double-blind comparison with placebo and naproxen.
To compare the analgesic efficacy of valdecoxib with placebo and naproxen sodium for relieving menstrual cramping and pain due to primary dysmenorrhea. ⋯ Valdecoxib provided a fast onset of analgesic action, a level of efficacy similar to naproxen sodium, and a high level of patient satisfaction in the relief of menstrual pain due to primary dysmenorrhea. Valdecoxib was effective and well tolerated and thus appears to be a viable treatment for menstrual pain due to primary dysmenorrhea.
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Both clinical trials and observational studies of persons with HIV infection commonly include health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measures, but less is known about the relation of HRQOL to survival among persons with HIV since the development of effective antiretroviral treatment. ⋯ Physical HRQOL added prognostic information over and above the sociodemographic and routinely available clinical data such as CD4 count and stage of HIV infection. Measurement of HRQOL, which is often performed to identify problems or assess outcomes, is also useful prognostically.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Brief physician and nurse practitioner-delivered counseling for high-risk drinking. Results at 12-month follow-up.
The objective of this study was to determine the effects of a brief primary care provider-delivered counseling intervention on the reduction of alcohol consumption by high-risk drinkers. The intervention was implemented as part of routine primary care medical practice. ⋯ Project Health provides evidence that screening and very brief (5-10 minute) advice and counseling delivered by a patient's personal physician or nurse practitioner as a routine part of a primary care visit can reduce alcohol consumption by high-risk drinkers.
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Comparative Study
Alcohol screening in young persons attending a sexually transmitted disease clinic. Comparison of AUDIT, CRAFFT, and CAGE instruments.
To compare the ability of 3 brief alcohol screens (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test [AUDIT], CRAFFT, and CAGE) to identify adolescents and young adults with a current alcohol use disorder (AUD) and to determine whether there are gender-based or race-based differences in screening performance. ⋯ Clinicians should use the AUDIT or CRAFFT, rather than the CAGE, to screen young persons for AUDs. The AUDIT performs best, but its length may limit its utility in this setting. The CRAFFT is a suitable alternative, with excellent sensitivity and no gender-based or race-based differences.