Family Encyclopedia of Health

REF This is no ordinary A-to-Z encyclopedia. Sharma, director of the Hale Clinic, an exclusive alternative therapy center in London that counts many of the rich and famous among its clientele, brings together orthodox and alternative treatments for 'problems we are all likely to come across in our lives.' The chapters in the first section are arranged according to life stage Sex, Fertility, and Conception; Pregnancy & Childbirth; Infancy & Childhood; Young Adult; Adult; and Middle Age and Onwards. Within each chapter, ailments common to that stage of life are described and recommendations for treatment or action are liberally highlighted throughout. Sharma intends this as an easy-reference first aid book, but it is a lot more than that. Part 2 covers nutrition (his comments about certain diets being 'ridiculous' are reassuring), diagnostic techniques, and alternative therapies, which are listed alphabetically. Also included is a glossary of commonly used drugs with description of benefits and side effects. An extensive list of useful addresses and lists of further reading are included in Part 3. With accessible text supported by clear line drawings, this excellent reference book compares favorably with The Medical Advisor: The Complete Guide to Alternative and Conventional Treatment (LJ 10/1/96). Recommended for consumer health collections. Kate Kelly, Massachusetts General Hosp., Boston; 692 pg.-