Observations

During the past year, the FDA has taken steps to ensure that better medicines and other products are available to counter potential biological, chemical, and radiological attacks. Besides working with other government agencies to encourage product development and availability, the FDA also is keeping a close watch on bioterrorism-related medical claims being made on the Internet.

In addition, the FDA is working with other government agencies and the private sector to protect the nation's food supply from attack. About 80 percent of the food Americans eat is regulated by the FDA. The agency is collaborating with the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection to more effectively inspect food imports. Nearly 20 percent of all imports into the United States are food and food products.

A joint effort by the Departments of Health and Human Services and Homeland Security--dubbed Project BioShield--will increase the FDA's role in the national counterterrorism effort. The bill authorizing the project was approved by the House of Representatives in July 2003. It currently is being considered by the Senate.

For more on the FDA and counterterrorism, see our cover story titled "The FDA and the Fight Against Terrorism."

Ultrasound images are used by health care providers to determine pregnancy and the age or condition of an unborn baby. Increasingly, operators of imaging facilities located in malls and shopping centers nationwide are promoting ultrasound "keepsake videos." The FDA says that ultrasound is an important diagnostic tool and often used to ensure the health of a fetus. But the agency warns that using the technology to obtain "keepsake" souvenirs is not without risk. For more on the proper use of ultrasound technology during pregnancy, see our feature titled "FDA Cautions Against Ultrasound 'Keepsake' Images."

There's no doubt about it: Americans love their pets. And research indicates that caring for dogs or cats can have health benefits such as lowering blood pressure. However, the animals we share our homes with also can carry diseases, some of which can be transmitted to humans. To learn more about animal diseases and the risk they pose, see our feature, "Keeping Pets (and People) Healthy."

We also take a look at the role that advisory committees play in FDA regulatory decisions and tell how a new test helps health care providers better screen for cervical cancer in women over 30. Don't forget to take our quiz.

The staff of FDA Consumer wishes you a Happy New Year!

Ray Formanek Jr.
Editor

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