Finding a good family doctor is one of the most important decisions a person has to make for his or her family. In this article, Dr. Cionci provides the criteria one should consider when selecting a general practitioner.

This is not a question, it is a declaration. While doing research in the medical library of one of our prestigious teaching hospitals, I came across a newsletter entitled, "Worst Pills, Best Pills" (January 2008).

Dr. Cionci, author of this column, passed away Friday, November 7, 2008.

The paroxysmal stage occurs after 10 to 14 days when the cough becomes daily and increases in severity. Five to 15 or more rapidly consecutive, forceful
coughs occur during a single expiration, and are followed by the whoop.

The short answer is failing grades (40 percent) and dropping out (28 percent). But the long answer is far more insidious, more devastating, and deadly! Binge drinking is drinking alcohol (usually beer) without restraint, to the point of becoming drunk. Binge drinking often begins around age 12 or 13 and peaks during ages 18-22. A Harvard University survey reveals that 44 percent of college students reported binge drinking.

The astonishing answer is yes! In an article published in March 2007, scientists in the United States have confirmed that circumcision can reduce by at least 50% the risk of a man contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS! This news caused much excitement among HIV/AIDS organizations throughout the world.