Peptic ulcer disease

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Peptic ulcer disease represents a substantial problem for many persons in the United States and in turn affects a large segment of patients in a physician's practice. While a multidisciplinary approach to evaluation is often necessary, Dr Ruoff points out that primary care physicians play a particularly important role in diagnosis and treatment because of familiarity with patients' life-style, family history, and existing medical conditions. He reviews the advantages and disadvantages of current drug and nondrug treatments and emphasizes appropriate patient education and follow-up to ensure continuity of care.