More than 1,000 entries define and explain causes of asthma and other respiratory diseases and disorders. Information on treatment protocols, medications, research, and prevention is given, as are definitions of key related health terms. Entries for professional and nonprofit organizations are also included.
Most definitions are very short, often just a phrase or a sentence. In one exception, the Asthma entry runs several pages and is nicely organized by subtopics such as "Symptoms and Signs of an Asthma Attack" and "Medications for Asthma." Entries for other respiratory diseases are several paragraphs long and, although the basics are covered, are not nearly as comprehensive as the asthma article. Some articles are accompanied by statistical charts and graphs. There are also tables listing things such as the weeds and trees that cause hay fever. The A-Z definitions and articles make up just over one-half of the book. The remainder is composed of extensive appendixes, most of which give statistical details about asthma.
The introduction states that the encyclopedia is a resource for patients and their families, but the vocabulary is geared to a professional reader and those familiar with medical terminology specific to respiratory disease. Health information consumers will find more accessible information in the Lung Disorders Sourcebook (Omnigraphics, 2002) and Respiratory Diseases and Disorders Sourcebook (Omnigraphics, 1995). Both of these titles are part of the consumer-friendly Health Reference Series. Other useful titles are The 2002 Official Patient's Sourcebook on Asthma (ICON, 2002) and the AMA's Essential Guide to Asthma (Pocket Books, 1998). The Encyclopedia of Asthma and Respiratory Disorders would be useful in libraries serving health-care professionals and students involved in a health curriculum. RBB
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