The disappearing autopsy: Nationally and locally, hospitals are performing fewer of these important procedures.

From: The Blade (Toledo, OH) | Date: April 17, 2006 | Copyright information

Byline: Luke Shockman

Apr. 17--Alzheimer's Disease, heart disease, cancer; doctors know more about almost any ailment - and its treatment - thanks to autopsies.

Wondering if Grandpa really had Alzheimer's Disease? Only an autopsy will tell you.

Confused about why your mother died young from heart disease? An autopsy might tell you if some abnormality - something you may have inherited - is to blame.

If you're a physician, are you hoping that new chemotherapy you're using on patients is really doing its job? An autopsy will help you decide.

But in hospitals ...

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