"The Facts On File Encyclopedia of Health and Medicine" is a comprehensive, four-volume reference perfect for a wide audience - from students to health professionals to lay readers - looking for reliable, accurate, accessible health information. Under direction of the Medical Advisory Review Panel, this authoritative, reference features contributions from a diverse group of medical professionals - including psychologists, dermatologists, pulmonary and critical care specialists, gynecologists, cardiologists, ophthalmologists, gastroenterologists, and many others. A wide range of topics are covered, from infancy to old age, paying attention to differences between genders and ethnic groups. Related body systems are grouped together in Volume 1 through Volume 3, with general health information in Volume 4. Each section is organized A to Z and provides an invaluable overview, discussing history, current research, and breakthroughs. All four volumes are extensively cross-referenced (both within the volume and with the other volumes). Each volume includes an index. A separate index in Volume 4 includes entries from all four volumes, and Volume 4 also includes several appendixes and lists of helpful resources. Its coverage includes: Volume 1: Ear, Nose, Mouth, and Throat; Eyes; Nervous System; Musculoskeletal System; Integumentary System: Skin, Hair, and Nails; and Pain Management. Volume 2: Cardiovascular System; Blood; Pulmonary System; Immune System and Allergies; Infectious Diseases; Cancer. Volume 3: Gastrointestinal System; Endocrine System; Urinary System; Reproductive Systems (female and male); Psychiatric Disorders and Psychologic Conditions. Volume 4: Preventive Medicine; Alternative and Complementary Approaches; Genetics and Molecular Medicine; Drugs; Nutrition and Diet; Fitness: Exercise and Health; Human Relations; Surgery; Lifestyle Variables: Smoking and Obesity; Substance Abuse; Emergency and First Aid. The Appendixes include: Vital Signs; Advance Directives; Glossary of Medical Terms; Abbreviations and Symbols; Medical Specialties and Allied Health Fields; Concise Notable Biographies; Modern Medicine Timeline; Resources; and others.