Southern medical journal
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Southern medical journal · Jun 2024
ReviewComprehensive Care for Adults with Down Syndrome in Primary Care Settings.
This review article aims to bridge the knowledge gap in providing comprehensive care to adults with Down syndrome (DS) in primary care settings. Despite the increasing prevalence of adults with DS, there is a significant lack of familiarity and comprehensive guidelines for their health care among primary care physicians. ⋯ This article attempts to provide guidance for healthcare providers on previsit preparation, clinic visit characteristics, testing and screening considerations, and decision making/guardianship for adults with DS. By emphasizing a patient-centered approach, this review aims to enhance the quality of care, reduce associated morbidity and mortality, and ultimately improve the health outcomes of adults with DS.
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Southern medical journal · May 2024
ReviewAndrogen Deprivation Therapy/Androgen Receptor Signaling Inhibitor Treatments for Prostate Cancer: Pathophysiology and Review of Effects on Cardiovascular Disease.
Androgen deprivation therapy is the cornerstone of systemic management for prostate cancer but is associated with multiple adverse effects that must be considered during treatment. These effects occur because of the profound hypogonadism that is induced from lack of testosterone or due to the medications used in the treatment or in combination with androgen receptor signaling inhibitors. This article critically reviews the associations between androgen deprivation therapy, androgen receptor signaling inhibitors, and cardiovascular complications such as prolonged QT interval, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, venous thromboembolism, and peripheral arterial occlusive disease. These unfavorable outcomes reinforce the need for regular cardiovascular screening of patients undergoing androgen deprivation for the management of prostate cancer.
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Southern medical journal · Mar 2024
ReviewPerceived Value of a Women's Health Journal Club in Rural Hawai'i.
Rural Hawai'i faces a shortage of physicians specializing in women's health. Improving clinician collaboration and access to the scientific literature are potential strategies for improving physician retention in this community. In 2021, a monthly women's health journal club was established for local clinicians and trainees on Hawai'i Island. Although journal clubs are common in large academic institutions, there are limited data regarding the value of journal clubs in rural and community practices. This study aimed to evaluate the value of a women's health journal club on Hawai'i Island. ⋯ This community-based journal club is a valuable activity for clinicians practicing on Hawai'i Island. Other rural communities may similarly benefit from engaging in structured scholarly discussion.
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Without rural hospitals, many patients may not have access to essential services, or even any health care. Rural hospitals provide a community hub for local access to primary care and emergency services, as well as a bridge to specialized care outside the community. ⋯ Born out of grassroots efforts in the rural US South, this model alliance, the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership, with the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences supporting as an academic medical center participant, offers resources and programs intended to help rural hospitals and healthcare providers survive and even thrive in the challenging landscape that is forcing many other rural hospitals to close. The Arkansas Rural Health Partnership model is relevant for rural states that are seeking to develop or reenvision rural hospital alliances with academic medical centers to the benefit of the hospitals and the health of their communities and state.