Keane et al report on eye screening in the elderly. This is a relatively low figure and is reassuring. Bosio et al describe the prevalence of chemical substance and alcohol abuse among expectant mothers. The individuals involved had predictable adverse social circumstances. Kieran Doran's piece on Confidentiality is the first of a forthcoming series on medico-legal matters.
Many breaches of confidentiality are unintentional.
Doctors need to be careful at all times when they are off-guard such as social occasions. The Irish Medical Journal publishes papers of medical interest to all branches of the medical profession. In addition, brief communications of exceptional interest, for example reports of single cases, will be printed in the correspondence section. Papers are accepted on the understanding that they have not been or will not be published elsewhere and are subject to editorial revision. Copies of these instructions may be obtained from the editorial office on receipt of a stamped addressed envelope.