A case of rectus sheath hematoma in the setting of paroxysmal coughing and platelet dysfunction.

Rectus sheath hematoma (RSH) is an uncommon cause of acute abdominal pain that may mimic other intra-abdominal pathologies. It is caused by the rupture of the superior or inferior epigastric artery or vein in the rectus abdominis muscle. Clinical features include sudden-onset abdominal pain and a palpable mass, and common risk factors include anti-coagulants, platelet dysfunction, and cough. Workup includes a physical exam, complete blood count, coagulation profile, ultrasound, and computed tomography. While most cases are treated conservatively, uncontrolled hemorrhage may be lethal and requires prompt recognition. We discuss a case of RSH which developed in the setting of paroxysmal coughing and platelet dysfunction. The purpose is to highlight the diagnosis and treatment of RSH and emphasize the importance of its inclusion in the differential for acute abdominal pain.

The men's health forum: an initiative to address health disparities in the community.

Racial/ethnic, socioeconomic, and gender disparities in health and access to and use of health care services currently exist. Health professionals are continually striving to reduce and eliminate health disparities within their own community. One such effort in the area of Tampa Bay, Florida was the creation of the African American Men's Health Forum, currently referred to as the Men's Health Forum. The African American Men's Health Forum was the result of the community's desire to reduce the gap in health outcomes for African American men. Later, it was recognized that the gap in health outcomes impacts other communities; therefore, it was broadened to include all men considered medically underserved (those who are uninsured, underinsured, or without a regular health care provider). The Men's Health Forum empowers men with the resources, knowledge, and information to effectively manage their health by providing health education and screenings to the community. This article provides an explanation of the key components that have contributed to the success of the Men's Health Forum, including challenges and lessons learned. It is intended that this information be replicated in other communities in an effort to eliminate health disparities.

The prostate cancer screening controversy: addressing bioethical concerns at a community health promotion event for men.

There are bioethical concerns related to prostate cancer screening. A new prostate cancer screening approach at a community health promotion event used vouchers to promote informed decision-making in order to reduce these concerns.