From Library Journal
Asthma is a disease that afflicts over ten million people, and half of its victims are children. It is an ancient disease, once considered psychosomatic, but now known to be a complex problem triggered by many different factors. These two books by physicians--Hannaway is affiliated with New England Medical Center and Young with Mt. Sinai Medical Center--report on the rights and responsibilities of the asthma patient and thoroughly cover the use of various asthma medications. Hannaway's book is well illustrated and has good information on the anatomy and physiology of the lung. Young's book has fewer illustrations, but has detailed information on special diets and the treatment of asthma during pregnancy. Both books discuss various theories on the causes of asthma and give detailed instructions on the elimination of environmental allergens that may bring on the asthma attack. Hannaway's book takes a more personal approach to the disease, due to his own experience as an asthma sufferer and father of two asthmatic children. Young's book is more clinical, but it includes case studies and comments from asthma patients. Both books compare quite favorably with Francois Haas and Sheila Sperber's The Essential Asthma Book ( LJ 8/87). Each of the three books is well written, and each is recommended. If only one may be purchased, Hannaway's would be the best first choice because of its illustrations and personal tone.
- Robert Schmid, L.R.C., Univ. of Health Sciences/Chicago Medical Sch., North Chicago
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.
- Robert Schmid, L.R.C., Univ. of Health Sciences/Chicago Medical Sch., North Chicago
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.
