In Print

From Focus:
Alternative Screening Could Cut Cervical Cancer Deaths in Poor Countries
It may surprise women to learn that their annual Pap smears are little better than a coin flip for detecting precancerous changes in the cervix. The test’s success in reducing cervical cancer rates has been limited to the United States and other wealthy countries that can afford regular screenings, which greatly increase the odds of detection. Now, Sue Goldie and her colleagues predict in a new model that two other tests targeted to women in their mid-30s could outperform the venerable cytological test at a fraction of the price. These tests could be paired with a same-day treatment option, affording developing countries a cost-effective way to lower their high cervical cancer rates by up to half.

Upcoming

Public Health Lecture:
An Advocate’s Perspective on How the Juvenile Justice System Responds to Youth Violence
Monday, Jan. 9
12:15–1:30 p.m.

• Lael Chester
  Citizens for Juvenile Justice
  

Lab Works

A multimedia site featuring Harvard Medical research.

Spotlight

Film Uses Tour de France as Vehicle for Touring Brain
Produced by Partners Healthcare, the film Wired to Win takes a spin through the human brain and its functions as illustrated by the experience of Tour de France competitors Baden Cooke (left) and Jimmy Casper.

Student Scene

Photo by Graham Ramsay

Birth of Change in Medicare Benefits: The Story of tPA
Erica Seiguer describes efforts behind a recent change in Medicare reimbursement, the recent approval of payment to hospitals for treating stroke patients with tissue plasminogen activator, or tPA. The therapy has been shown to improve outcomes and limit disability.

StudenTalk

Personal takes on issues inside and outside the classroom.