Taking care of men

THE LATEST EDITION of Men’s health is a comprehensive reference book on all aspects of men’s health. All chapters have been revised and new topics, such as men’s attitude to cancer and genital piercing, have been introduced. The preface reminds us of the mortality gap which persists between the sexes and that men need to take care of themselves and their health.

The book is intended for primary care practitioners and specialists in the diseases that commonly afflict men (urology, diabetes, cardiology, HIV). The editors and contributors are American and English, and they confine themselves to information about adult men. Every possible topic and disease process that involves men is covered — some in more detail than others. Social issues, risk behaviours and suicide provide an important introduction, with the rest of the book covering medical conditions such as cardiac disease, obesity, diabetes, prostate and bladder disorders, erectile dysfunction, male cancers and Peyronie’s disease. Information is included on pathogenesis and treatment, the detail is not excessive, and the chapters are just the right size for easy reading. Plenty of references are provided for those seeking further information.

I was particularly impressed by the information on alopecia, osteoporosis, and genital trauma. The chapter on androgen deficiency is surprisingly brief considering the ongoing controversy over testosterone supplementation for the so-called male “andropause”. The chapter on circumcision is balanced and objective, and the section on genital piercing is novel, providing information that few of us are aware of. The pictures are unforgettable!

The recommended retail price of Men’s health is $165. I believe this is good value for the huge amount of up-to-date and well-written medical information it contains. Any healthcare professional who treats men would find this book a valuable asset.

Michael P LowyGeneral Practitioner Sydney Centre for Men’s Health Bondi Junction, NSW

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