A survey of 150 general practice dentists examined the relationship between 6 career interests (scientific, artistic, social, enterprising, conventional, technical) and career satisfaction. Results are presented and compared with findings of other studies of dental students and practitioners. Results suggest that satisfied dentists tended to like…

This introduction to a journal supplement on education of the generalist physician describes the supplement's goal of capturing "in a qualitative way, the richness and complexity of primary care education and its place within the much larger context of health care and medical education reform." (JDD)

A review of the combined M.D.-Ph.D training program at Johns Hopkins Medical School (Maryland) found that, of 109 students who earned both degrees since 1980, 42 have completed all training and are now in career positions. Most (81 percent) are in full-time academic posts, with 14 percent in research institutes and the remaining 5 percent in…

Study tested the effect of exercise programs on bone mineral content (BMC) and BMC/bone width in 31 postmenopausal women. Subjects were placed in groups with aerobic exercise, aerobics plus upper-body weight training, or no exercise. Results indicate that regular exercise programs positively affect bone mineral maintenance in postmenopausal women.…

A study in a medical center investigated the feasibility of primary care practices combining internal medicine and pediatrics residencies. Equally divided among children and adults, the patients had sought specialists and were highly satisfied. The physicians had appeal particularly to young upper-middle class patients. (Author/MSE)

Interviews with 20 physicians caring for coronary high-risk male patients highlighted the importance of family involvement and support systems to health promotion. Physicians' behavior must consider the complex interaction of the personal, professional, and social cultures of practitioners, patients, and the health care environment. (SK)

This paper reviews the effects of iodine deficiency across the lifespan, with special reference to mental defect; discusses the magnitude of the problem; describes available iodine technology to control iodine deficiency disorders (IDD); and notes the status of national IDD control programs, to assess the likelihood of eliminating IDD by the year…

A study confirmed the notion that preparing a child psychologically for surgery benefits not only the child but also the entire medical process. The study also confirmed significant statistical reduction of fear resulting from the effectiveness of psychological preparation and the use of films showing the surgical procedure. (Author/LB)

Responds to previous articles on counseling psychology and health service by raising issues for consideration concerning involvement of health psychology in health care. Considers the evidence for the effectiveness of interventions, the impact of new services on health care costs, and the role of counseling psychologists in relation to other…

More male than female physicians practice sports medicine, though women are an increasing presence. The article examines reasons for the discrepancy (e.g., lack of interest or lack of opportunity) and discusses ways to work for change and create opportunities for women in the field. (SM)

Presents current information on exercise, immunity, and infection in athletes and active people, focusing on well-established immunologic changes and practical clinical aspects of common infections. The article also guides physicians on what to advise active and athletic patients. (SM)

A study investigated the effectiveness of and student perceptions of a medical school curriculum segment on universal precautions against blood-borne diseases and techniques of phlebotomy and intravenous insertion using universal precautions. Additional voluntary training was offered. Results indicate the training significantly improved student…

Discusses chronic fatigue syndrome as it affects elite athletes, noting that overtraining may mimic it. In some cases, athletes who have it perform exceedingly well in the face of debilitating fatigue. Among athletes and nonathletes, the cause and the mind-body connection are areas of controversy and research. (Author/SM)

Examines whether prepubescents are trainable in competitive sports, noting trainability differences between prepubescents and older groups. Changes in maximal aerobic power, metabolic cost of walking and running, muscle strength and power, and local muscle endurance are examined. Strength training is recommended only for rehabilitation or…

Precamp physical examinations for children should be more than just cursory checks for routine problems. They should be complete health maintenance exams tailored to the needs of each child and to the rigors of the camp being attended. (Author/SM)