Demographic and lifestyle factors associated with perceived stress in the primary care setting: a MetroNet study.

Background: Stress and stress-related disorders are common in primary care. The stress-related needs for patients are often unmet partially due to the time and resource constraints inherent to many primary care settings. We examined the relative significance of key demographic and lifestyle factors related to stress among primary care patients.

A population-based study of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow in Washington State workers' compensation.

Background: There are no population-based studies of return to work after ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE). We examine the predictors of return to work following a diagnosis of work-related UNE.

Methods: Workers diagnosed with work-related UNE between 1995 and 2000 were identified from the administrative records of the Washington State workers' compensation system (n = 2,863).

The causal role of fatigue in the stress-perceived health relationship: a MetroNet study.

Background: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 4 primary care MetroNet centers in metropolitan Detroit. Our objective was to describe the causal role of fatigue in the relationship among stress, stress resiliency, and perceived health in primary care. Fatigue is a public health problem that has been linked to stress and poor health.

Mortality after lumbar fusion surgery.

Study Design: Retrospective population-based cohort study.

Objective: To describe mortality after lumbar fusion surgery in Washington State workers' compensation claimants in the perioperative period and beyond.

Summary Of Background Data: Although lumbar fusion surgery can be associated with serious complications, perioperative mortality is generally considered rare.

Lumbar fusion outcomes in Washington State workers' compensation.

Study Design: Retrospective population-based cohort study.

Objective: To evaluate the influence of lumbar intervertebral fusion devices on clinical and disability outcomes among Washington State compensated workers with chronic back pain.

Summary Of Background Data: The efficacy of lumbar fusion for chronic low back pain remains controversial.