Steroid phobia, Chinese medicine and asthma control.

Background: Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are the mainstay of treatment for asthma. Corticosteroid (CS) phobia and fears are prevalent, and these may influence therapeutic efficacy and asthma control.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate if CS fear is associated with asthma control in children.

Surveillance programme for hepatocellular carcinoma improves the survival of patients with chronic viral hepatitis.

Background: The survival benefit of surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is controversial.

Aim: We aimed to examine the survival benefit of HCC surveillance in chronic viral hepatitis.

Methods: Survivals of HCC patients related to chronic viral hepatitis from the Hepatology Clinic (surveillance group) were compared with those referred from other hospitals/clinics (no-surveillance group).