The influence of drug firms

Medical student Rachel K. Sobel exposes the fraying integrity of scientific research and medical care in this country in “An Expensive Free Lunch” [Jan. 23] regarding the common practice of pharmaceutical representatives providing food and gifts to medical students and staff. No wonder so many diabetic patients come to nutrition counseling already prescribed with two, three and more medications. Ironically, nutrition therapy, which gets little research or insurance reimbursement, can be amazingly effective when practiced effectively.

The pharmaceutical companies have undue influence in funding research, on what is published, as well as what is taught to medical personnel. If this scenario continues, the opportunity for lifestyle education and lifestyle choices to reduce reliance on medications is going to stay in an obscure little box.

BONNIE Y. MODUGNO

Santa Monica