Cholesterol guidelines in dispute due to potential conflict of interest

According to a story on KGBT 4-TV, eight of the nine physicians involved in developing cholesterol guidelines for the public had financial ties to the companies whose drugs the guidelines recommend.

Two own stock in them. Two others went to work for drug companies shortly after working on the guidelines. Another was a senior government scientist who moonlights for ten companies and even serves on one of their boards...Consumer groups and others now are questioning not only the advice these doctors gave but also their fundamental ability to act in the public's best interest.

Then there's this little tidbit at the end that might make you see red: "There is also the continuing medical education system, which often gives doctors credits for attending drug-company-sponsored talks."

The general media doesn't get CME--will someone please explain it to them??

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