I've experienced living in 2 other countries and IMHO the intent is not as honorable here as you suggest. For example, maintenance drugs like Lipitor are extrem

I've experienced living in 2 other countries and IMHO the intent is not as honorable here as you suggest. For example, maintenance drugs like Lipitor are extremely profitable and provide long term recurring revenue. There's a strong incentive (at best) for doctors to recommend a lifetime prescription over diet and exercise. Prostate cancer detection and surgery is another controversial area. Read this: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/10/opinion/10Ablin.html http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/10/opinion/10Ablin.html On a tangental note, you should see if you can find the podcast of "My Lobotomy". The history of Dr Freeman and the story of Howard Dully. It's a great lesson on why a healthy suspicion of the medical profession is a good thing. Here's a transcript: http://www.npr.org/templates/transcript/transcript.php?storyId=5014080 http://www.npr.org/templates/transcript/transcript.php?story... I get allergies too. Horrible damned affliction!