By the way, doctor: What’s in sunscreen that protects against UVA rays?
What UVA-blocking ingredients should I look for in a sunscreen? And does a higher SPF rating mean greater UVA protection?
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On call: The digital rectal exam
I just reviewed your article on PSA testing. After talking with my wife, I’ve decided to skip the PSA test when I go for my annual physical next month. But your article doesn’t say much about rectal exams. Should I skip that also?
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In the journals: Cognitive behavioral therapy more effective than light therapy for relieving seasonal depression
A small study found that cognitive behavioral therapy was a more effective treatment for seasonal affective disorder than light therapy.
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On call: Discolored respiratory mucus
When I get a flow of green mucus from my nose after a cold, I get a prescription for antibiotics. But last week my doctor was on vacation, and the young covering M.D. would not call in an antibiotic. I was very upset. What can I do if this happens again?
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PSA: Prostate-Specific Antigen, Persisting Scientific Ambiguities
The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test can detect prostate cancer early enough for treatment, but it cannot determine whether the cancer is aggressive or indolent, and overdiagnosis is its biggest drawback.
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Heart Beat: Longer workouts better for boosting good cholesterol
Exercise helps boost the body’s production of HDL cholesterol, but the amount of the increase can vary. The longer the workout, the more the body’s HDL cholesterol level is likely to be raised.
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Ask the doctor: What causes C-reactive protein levels to vary?
I had a high-sensitivity C-reactive protein test that was 38.6, which my doctor said was quite high. My cholesterol was fine. A heart scan and stress test were normal. When my doctor repeated the test, my hsCRP was 6.1. What can cause such variations?
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Heart Beat: Checking blood pressure at home
People with high blood pressure who regularly monitor their blood pressure at home seem more likely to lower their pressure over time than those who only have it checked at a doctor’s office.
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In brief: Hypnosis helps reduce hot flashes in breast cancer survivors
Breast cancer survivors suffering from hot flashes who underwent hypnosis therapy for a study experienced a significant decrease in the frequency and intensity of their hot flashes.
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On call: Inhibited ejaculation
At age 74, I can have erections, both with and without Levitra, but I have increasing difficulty achieving ejaculation. I assume this is related to ED and age, but wonder whether there is a solution. I don’t drink or have diabetes.
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