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Your Genetic Destiny : Know Your Genes, Secure Your Health, Save Your Life

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"Your Genetic Destiny," by Dr. Aubrey Milunsky, is a book for those concerned about their own genetic health and the health of children that they might have. Dr. Milunsky is an international expert on human genetics and genetic counseling and it shows in this authoritative and interesting book. Dr. Milunsky explains the inheritance patterns of genetic traits and then talks about what to look for in your own family tree in order to be aware of future health problems. He covers the complete gamut of genetic diseases, including mental illness, heart disease, obesity, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. He makes complex subjects easy to understand and presents the readers with the choices available today. I think that this book is not just for those contemplating having children, but for the general reader as well. We are beginning the century of human genetics and we all should be aware of the issues. As a geneticist (the author of a genetics textbook in its seventh edition), this is exactly the book that I would have written for the general public. In fact, after reading Dr. Milunsky's book, I have put my own plans for a similar book on the shelf-permanently. I highly recommend this readable, authoritative book to all.

It must be a rare experience to encounter a book with many messages each having the potential to save many lives. Your Genetic Destiny: Know Your Genes, Secure Your Health, and Save Your Life is precisely such a book. Written in non-technical language without the reader needing a background in medicine or biology, Dr. Milunsky clearly spells out what each person should know about their family history and what actions and DNA or other genetic tests are now appropriate and even necessary. This is especially important given the many recent advances in human genetics.

Every family has concerns about the hereditary aspects of common illnesses covered in this book including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, Alzheimer's disease and aging. Ethnic-related diseases for which there are so many DNA tests available now, are also discussed. Important information is provided about the avoidance and prevention of mental retardation, birth defects, and many different genetic disorders. Most important are clear recommendations about who should seek genetic counseling.

Dr. Milunsky states that "the purpose of this book is to empower and encourage you to know your genes" so that you can secure your own health and life and that of your loved ones. He has fully accomplished his goals in this authoritative book that should be read by every family.

Written in concise yet vibrant language by an eminent geneticist, this volume offers a broad approach for the general public interested in useful and practical genetic information and advice. Many clinicians may also find it to be a useful resource in their busy clinical work. A brief introduction to genetic principles leads into succinct, informative reviews of genetic aspects and risks of a host of medical conditions, such as obesity, cancer, mood disorders, Attention Deficit Disorder, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's and longevity. The concluding chapters on "Avoidance and Prevention of Genetic Disorders" will appeal to those who wish to be genetically informed when making decisions about their own their lives or life styles.

This informed family health guide discusses the health implications of genetic disorders in a family history, drawing on the latest research and findings to discuss genetic predispositions to common ailments, tests available for identification, and when to seek genetic counseling. Your Genetic Destiny is an excellent and informative guide to the latest findings about how genetics influence health.