Reducing Mental Health Stigma in Medical Students and Doctors towards their Peers with Mental Health Difficulties: A Protocol.

Mental health problems are over-represented in doctors and medical students. However, stigma and 'a culture of shame' are formidable barriers to mental health services and consequently many doctors and medical students with mental health difficulties continue to suffer in silence despite the availability of effective treatment. Indeed, a recent study on over 2100 female physicians who met the diagnostic criteria for a mental disorder revealed that 50% were reluctant to seek professional help due to fear of exposure to stigma.

Prevalence, patterns of treatment, and control of hypertension in predialysis patients with chronic kidney disease.

Background/aims: Data on the prevalence, treatment and control of hypertension in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) are limited. This study aimed to examine the above factors in a cohort of predialysis patients.

Methods: During a period of 4 months, we recorded information on blood pressure (BP), comorbidities, medications and related parameters of patients followed up in the Low-Clearance Clinic of our Department.

Prevalence and factors associated with hyperkalemia in predialysis patients followed in a low-clearance clinic.

Background And Objectives: Recent studies evaluated the prevalence of hyperkalemia and related risk factors in patients with CKD of various stages, but there is limited relevant information in predialysis patients. This study aimed to examine the prevalence and factors associated with hyperkalemia in the structured environment of a low-clearance clinic.

Design, Setting, Participants, & Measurements: In a cross-sectional fashion over a prespecified period of 4 months, information on serum potassium and relevant laboratory variables, comorbidities, medications, and dietician input in patients with advanced CKD under follow-up in the low-clearance clinic of our department was recorded.