In the past 25 years, more than 30 new germs affecting humans have emerged onto the medical scene, most of them rising from animals. New diseases like the avian flu, Ebola, SARS, and weaponized viruses such as anthrax and smallpox pose a growing danger to the world. With the threat of infectious diseases remaining constant, it is essential to have clear and concise information on this topic. The A to Z of Infectious Diseases provides more than 600 up-to-date entries covering the latest research, new treatments and vaccines, and rising diseases such as mad cow disease. Appendixes include drugs...

Current statistics show that one out of nine women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. It is important that students, adults, and professionals alike possess a thorough understanding of this all-too-common disease. The positive effects of prevention and early detection are well-known, making a knowledge of signs, symptoms, causes, tests, and other factors essential. In The A to Z of Breast Cancer, more than 500 detailed entries discuss breast cancer in men and women, including statistics, prevention, symptoms, causes, treatments, and much more. The A to Z of...

The A to Z of the Heart and Heart Disease brings together the most current information about the heart and related topics. More than 600 detailed entries cover such topics as etiology, symptoms, preventive strategies, treatments, medications, surgeries, and more.

The A to Z of Addictions and Addictive Behaviors is an informative guide to addictive behaviors--their signs, symptoms, and causes, as well as how to treat them. More than 300 entries provide a comprehensive overview of individual addictions as well as overlapping issues, such as emotional problems, family dysfunction, and difficulties with employment. This volume also includes appendixes listing important organizations, illustrative tables of important statistics, and a detailed bibliography.