Vaping has been thought to be a safe, effective smoking cessation aid, but little evidence supports its value in mitigating tobacco use.

Limited understanding of disease etiology often leads to resistance, which can result in low vaccine uptake.

Mortality rates for breast cancer are higher where treatments are unavailable and unaffordable. Though less effective, breast examination could be a good screening approach.

Culturally appropriate responsiveness to mental illnesses is critical to mitigating local persons’ distrust of international clinicians.

During one 2014 Ebola epidemic, arrival of “safe burial” teams was often delayed. Some buried their loved ones themselves, which undermined containment efforts.

Balancing need for global solidarity against local stakeholders’ safety concerns is one source of tension when trying to mitigate global risk.

Empathic communication skills help motivate understanding of safety, significance of harms, impact on succeeding generations, and social consequences.

Responding to patients violating US health commerce regulations can be critical when they buy and use unproven interventions.

Transnational monitoring efforts should focus on safety, defining standard of care, and promoting just access to innovation.

Counseling a patient about reconstructive surgery for a traumatic and disfiguring injury requires special consideration.