Articles

Dr. Whitaker answers your questions about common screening tests and surgical procedures.

CT scans are a breakthrough in diagnostic radiology—they’re a fast, comfortable, and noninvasive way for doctors to assess a range of health problems. But they also have a dangerous downside.

Dr. Whitaker explains his take on colonoscopies and fecal occult blood tests.

Every year, thousands of people undergo coronary artery bypass surgery to restore blood flow to the heart. But this procedure is not—and has never been—the panacea that surgeons claim it is.

Dr. Julian Whitaker comments on the National Consumers League's Script Your Future campaign.

"Mammogram" may be the buzzword of the month, but this popular cancer screening isn't necessarily all it's cracked up to be. Here's what all women need to know.

Ovarian cancer screenings do not lower women's risk of dying from the disease—but they do expose them to more health risks from unnecessary invasive treatment.

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is an enzyme produced in the prostate. For decades, men have been recommended to have their blood level of PSA tested annually. But research shows that PSA tests actually do more harm than good.

Learn about the pros and cons associated with common screening tests.

Physicians check blood pressure levels with a sphygmomanometer and a stethoscope. But research suggests that four in five blood pressure readings taken in doctors’ offices are inaccurate.

Angioplasty is the standard of care for people who have had a heart attack. It is also a popular therapy for angina and for asymptomatic patients with blockages in the coronary arteries. But research shows most people don’t benefit from angioplasty.