S. Jiang

Ranibizumab for age-related macular degeneration: a meta-analysis of dose effects and comparison with no anti-VEGF treatment and bevacizumab

Ranibizumab is used monthly or as‐needed (PRN) for the treatment of age‐related macular degeneration. However, which treatment regimen is more effective remains unknown. The objectives of this study are to: (i) compare the efficacy of monthly versus as‐needed quarterly treatment; and (ii) compare the efficacy of ranibizumab 0·5 mg treatment with: (a) no anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF); (b) ranibizumab 0·3 mg; and (c) bevacizumab.

Predictors of prostate cancer screening using Andersen’s Behavioral Model of Health Services Use

PURPOSE The purposes of the study were to examine the prevalence of prostate cancer screening (PCS) in the United States and to identify predictors of PCS guided by Andersens Behavioral Model of Health Services Use (ABM). METHODS PCS rates were analyzed in men (aged ≥40y) using 2014 data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Descriptive analysis was conducted using sampling weights to determine the prevalence of PCS (i.e., had a prostate-specific antigen test). Multiple logistic regression within the framework of ABM was used to identify predictors of PCS. The ABM variables of predisposing (e.g., age), enabling (e.g., health insurance), and need (e.g., comorbidities) comprised the independent variables. RESULTS Among the 131,415 men, 62.4% (N = 82,014) reported that they had a prostate-specific antigen test in the last 2 years. Among predisposing factors, age, education, income, and employment status were significantly associated with undergoing PCS. Informed decision-making process, health care coverage, regular health care provider, and length of time since last routine checkup were significant enabling factors. Health care provider recommendation and previous cancer diagnosis were significant need factors. CONCLUSIONS Most older men in the United States had previously engaged in PCS. Several ABM variables were predictive of PCS and should be considered when developing future strategies to encourage PCS in at-risk men with the recommended life expectancies. Such strategies should also ensure that the decision to undergo PCS is an informed process between patients and their health care providers.

Patients’ willingness to work with peer supporters for chronic medication management

To use the theory of planned behaviour to predict patients’ willingness to work with a peer supporter for medication management, to assess perceived importance of peer supporter characteristics and to assess communication preferences.

A comparison of national immunization rates to immunization rates of Latino diabetic patients receiving clinical pharmacist interventions in a federally qualified community health centre (FQHC)

To compare national immunization rates to immunization rates of Latino patients receiving clinical pharmacist interventions in a federally qualified community health centre (FQHC) in 2010.