Should Evidence-Based Medicine Be Replaced by Interpersonal Medicine?
An opinion piece in the New England Journal of Medicine complains about the limitations of evidence-based medicine (EBM) and recommends a new approach they call "interpersonal medicine." In my opinion, good clinical medicine is already interpersonal medicine; there is no need for something new.
Afflicted and the Tragedy of Fake Illnesses
Afflicted is a documentary following the lives and treatments of people "diagnosed" with illnesses not recognized by science. Conversely, it could also be seen as a documentary illustrating the risks and harms of alternative medicine.
The White Coat Effect in Animals: Reducing Fear in the Vet Clinic
Fear during veterinary visits is a problem for everyone involved. While everyone wants less of it, there is limited evidence to support any interventions right now.
Happy Thanksgiving from SBM!
Today is Thanksgiving in the U.S. and SBM is taking the day off. Have a wonderful holiday!
The Revenge of Chicken Pox
Another outbreak, this time chickenpox, can be blamed on antivaxxers.
Be careful what you wish for…
A "naturopathic oncologist" on Twitter challenged me to examine the work of his two "naturopathic oncology" mentors. It did not go well...for him.
The Influence of Kinesiology Tape Color on Athletic Performance: An Actual Published Study…Seriously
Does the color of kinesiology tape effect athletic performance or neuromuscular function? This serious research, published in a legitimate medical journal, asks this non-satirical question. The answer is pretty much what you would expect. No, it doesn't.
IgG food intolerance tests continue to mislead consumers into unnecessary dietary restrictions
IgG food intolerance testing is ineffective, yet it continues to be promoted to consumers. CBC Marketplace recently investigated two Canadian companies that sell these tests.
Chinese Researcher Reports First Gene-Edited Babies
A Chinese scientist announces first gene-edited babies, setting off a discussion of the science and ethics of using CRISPR on humans.