Several individuals have inquired as to why it is improper to release
information from journal publications early.  The reason, as I understand
it, is to prevent the press and general public from receiving this
information before the physicians and other subscribers to the journals
receive it.  Subscribers/medical providers have complained that when the
press releases information early, they are bombarded with inquiries from
patients regarding information contained in these as-yet-to-be-released
articles.  But since they have not even received their copies of the
journals, they cannot possibly respond to the inquiries.  By preventing
information "leaks" the information gets to the physicians/subscribers
first, so that (at least in theory) they can read and be prepared to respond
to questions and concerns from patients.  Personally, I think this is sound
policy.  Imagine, for example, if several patients called you to ask about
the "breastfeeding linked to increased heart disease risk" article and you
were expected to answer questions about it, but hadn't even heard of or read
the study.  You would be much better able to give a sound and professional
response if you had had access to the information in advance than if you had
to say,  "Well, gee, I think this...  But I haven't read it yet.  I'll get
back to you next week after the article is published..."

Catharine Decker, MD

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