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Biomedical subjects

L L Gabel

Publications and source records attributed to L L Gabel.

25 records · Page 2Linked to original sources

Comparative symptomatology of phobic and nonphobic panic attacks.

Following a survey of the general population, the prevalence of panic symptomatology was compared in 12 phobic and 46 non-phobic subjects identified from the sample. Fear of losing control (p = .019) was more characteristic of phobic panic attacks while dyspnea (p less than or equal to .05) and dizziness (p less than or equal to .02) were more prevalent in nonphobic attacks. Within this population, it appears that there are few large differences in symptom frequency between the two groups. However, the differences that do exist may be due to either a difference in pathophysiology or may reflect development of secondary hyperventilation in those with nonphobic attacks.

Adolescent↗

Surgical practice and perceived training needs of selected Ohio family physicians.

This study was performed to determine, relative to Ohio, what percentage of family physicians are actively involved in providing surgical care, what types of surgical care are provided, and what variations exist in opinions and practices regarding surgery related to previous training and practice location. Data were collected from active members of the Ohio Academy of Family Physicians; usable returns were secured from 76 percent of the members. Several conclusions were made. Overwhelming percentages of family physicians in Ohio are actively involved in providing surgical care. A considerably greater percentage of family physicians are actively involved in performing minor surgery compared with major surgery, although they perform a wide range of minor and major surgical procedures at relatively high frequencies. Over the years, however, there has been a decrease in performance of major surgery on the part of family physicians in Ohio. Issues related to surgery in family practice are more positively influenced by being in a rural practice rather than an urban or suburban practice, having had more surgical training, and having had family practice residency training. Family physicians in Ohio definitely think that surgical training should be included in family practice training programs, and they think that the surgical training should be balanced between a curriculum standardized for all residents and one individualized to the anticipated future practices of the residents.

Attitude of Health Personnel↗

Excessive fetal activity: another worrisome sign?

Documented fetal inactivity is strongly suggestive of fetal jeopardy, but the significance of excessive activity over a prolonged period has not been reported. Using data gathered from fetal movement charts recorded by 931 patients, fetal hyperactivity was defined statistically as 40 or more movements perceived per hour for at least 14 days shortly before delivery. No association between excessive fetal activity and premature labor or umbilical cord complications was found. All 47 (5%) fetuses found to be hyperactive remained vigorous during any trial of labor and with appropriate nursery care did well after delivery. Follow-up examination of 24 infants between 3 and 18 months of age has revealed no unusual growth, developmental, or temperamental patterns. Although the reason for excessive fetal activity remains unclear, this finding does not appear to be a worrisome prognostic sign.

Cesarean Section↗

HIV-related disease: family physicians' multiple opportunities for preventive intervention.

BACKGROUND: The spread of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the increasing number of persons with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) are major health problems. HIV risk factors are well documented, and HIV disease is recognized as a chronic illness with a predictable course. METHODS: Since September 1987 the East Central AIDS Education and Training Center for Health Professionals has served Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Activities include (1) educating and training primary health care providers on prevention and treatment of AIDS, (2) training selected individuals to train others, (3) providing guidance in multidisciplinary management of HIV disease, (4) disseminating updates about HIV and AIDS, and (5) serving as a support system through referral activities. RESULTS: Too many primary physicians, including family physicians, are uncomfortable with patients who are at risk for becoming infected with HIV or who are HIV-infected. Long-term concern and attention that might normally be offered to other patients with different chronic or fatal diseases are sometimes avoided. Patients also present barriers to care, making it difficult for family physicians to provide appropriate care. CONCLUSIONS: Understanding the natural history of HIV infection is integral to family physicians' important roles in preventing and dealing with HIV. One role is screening at-risk persons; this function usually has associated opportunities for education. A second role is mainstreaming HIV-related illnesses; if family physicians treat HIV-positive persons, then AIDS is not "someone else's problem." A third role is leadership; as family physicians overcome fear and prejudice, they become role models. Each role is consistent with long-held traditions of family practice.

AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections↗

Detecting and treating bulimia nervosa: how involved are family physicians?

BACKGROUND: Relatively little is known about bulimia nervosa in the primary care setting. Existing medical literature suggests that primary care physicians have limited experience with bulimia nervosa. METHODS: Experiences of family physicians with bulimia nervosa specifically and eating disorders in general were assessed by a questionnaire mailed to a representative sample (596 subjects) of Ohio family physicians. The response rate was 52.6 percent. RESULTS: Approximately 30 percent of the respondents had never diagnosed bulimia in a patient; 60 percent had no bulimic patients at the time of the survey. The mean career total of bulimic patients per physician was 5.3 (SD = 5.6). Younger physicians and female physicians were more likely to have bulimic patients. Having bulimic patients correlated significantly with having contact with bulimic and with anorexic persons in nonoffice settings. CONCLUSIONS: Despite a general prevalence rate of about 1 percent for bulimia (much greater for the female population, particularly in adolescents and athletes), nearly one third of Ohio family physicians have never diagnosed bulimia in a patient, and nearly two thirds are not currently providing care for bulimic patients. Because screening is quick, inexpensive, and straightforward, all at-risk patients--athletes or those who have concerns related to paucity of menstruation, gastrointestinal symptoms, dieting or weight concerns, and depression--should be screened for bulimia.

Age Factors↗