Jewish Genetic Disorders: A Layman's Guide (Paperback)

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Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Geared to consumers, this superb guide clearly answers questions about genetic diseases common to the Jewish people. The outstanding writing and well-organized text combine to make difficult material accessible to a broad audience. Arranged in three sections, the book begins with an overview of the basics of genetics and genetic disease, followed by a chapter on how and why some diseases occur more often among the Ashkenazi, Sephardi, and Oriental Jewish populations. The largest section comprises a wealth of information about the specific genetic diseases, arranged by body system (e.g., gastrointestinal, central nervous system diseases), and the cancers. Additionally, a helpful glossary, a list of screening centers, and suggestions for further reading are provided. Abel (obstetrics/gynecology,Wayne State Univ.) shows great skill in weaving together sometimes heartbreaking facts with a gentle hand. Because of its well-written, current, and comprehensive coverage, this title would be exceptional even if there were tons of books on this topic (which there aren't). A first-choice selection for all consumer health and larger public library collections. Gail Hendler, NYU Medical Ctr. Lib., New York
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Library Binding edition.

Review

"Masterful job of providing basic information about Tay-Sachs and dozens of other[s]...well-researched...clearly written...a major contribution." --Jewish Bulletin

"Superb…clearly answers questions…outstanding writing…well-organized…a wealth of information…current and comprehensive coverage…exceptional…a first choice selection." --Library Journal

"Well-researched...clearly written." --Cleveland Jewish News

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 248 pages
• Publisher: McFarland; Paperback edition (August 27, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0786440872
• ISBN-13: 978-0786440870
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 5.9 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,694,671 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Interesting reading, but quite dry, July 21, 2004

By	Peter LaPrade (worcester ma) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Jewish Genetic Disorders: A Layman's Guide (Library Binding)

Ernest L. Abel's book on Jewish Genetic Disorders, is written from the common person, where he tries to explain which disorders show up disproportionally in the Jewish population. He has chapters divided by the organ systems the disease affects. Abel discusses such heartbreaking diseases like Tay-Sachs, and other more obscure diseases. Abel's writing is quite dry, but I read through it quick enough. 3 stars