Minor Retraction

I would like to post a minor retraction. After spending time reviewing a certain Direct to Consumer genetic testing website, I found mention of:

1. That not all hemochromatosis is caused by HFE. It was one sentence in relation to several paragraphs on the page.
2. That you could test for iron studies, "Doctors usually perform screening tests before moving on to genetic testing or liver biopsy. " No, ALL doctors test iron levels prior to genetic testing or liver biopsy. It is the standard of care. You would get sued if you did not test iron studies first.
3. On their HFE questionnaire there is no place to state "no/yes my iron has been tested"

So... sorry for failing to mention that this info can be found approximately 5 clicks away from the testing info.

By the way, Myriad just released their 10Q for December Gross profits have tripled since 2004. Perhaps it is due to the "lab reps" they send into swanky offices in Greenwich and Park Avenue? Or maybe it is their gene patents, stifling innovation and research. Shame on you Dr Henderson

More on colon cancer.

While preparing to give a lecture on colon cancer for my curriculum study I came across another piece of evidence that should give most patients pause. I hope my readers take this to heart and begin assembling their own family histories. This week in the Journal of General Internal Medicine there is an article surveying patients about their experiences and screening offered for colon cancer prevention. The first survey identified patients with a family history of colon cancer and the second survey evaluated the care they received by their internist. The care was given at a Harvard affiliate! Here's what they found:

1. Only 39% of patients under 50 were asked about family history
2. Only 45% of patients with a significant family history had been screened appropriately
3. Only 46% of patients knew that family history of colon cancer can indicate a need for earlier cancer screening!

These averages might be good in baseball, but we are talking about human life here!

I am sure that with the database options in these new electronic medical records we will see more of our shortcomings. Especially when it comes to genetic care. That is if tracking family history is an option for an EMR. Most programs have woefully inadequate genetic options.

Here's what I will tell these young doctors: You better ask for family history, because the patient will not tell you they are at risk!

Here's what I will tell you: Please take your family's history and give it to the doctor, because they likely won't ask! More importantly, educate yourself about screening at the United States Preventative Services Task Force(USPSTF)