From chronic diseases to infectious conditions, a growing number of health issues face countries all over the world. With the advent of globalization, more and more young people than ever are having their lives taken by diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and heart disease-but there is still hope for improving this ever-changing health situation. The answer lies in empowerment and education, and understanding the incredible machine that is the human body. With this revolutionary health care guide, people can begin to educate themselves and take charge of their own health, regardless of their current knowledge of technical terms or medical jargon. Written by experienced health care professionals, with the average patient in mind, this book covers most major areas of general medicine-from the vital organs and their functional impairments to infectious diseases to environmental and occupational health risks. It includes up-to-date information about disease specific signs and symptoms, the latest approaches used by medical professionals for clinical diagnoses, treatments, and ways to work on health and wellness at home. The book provides guidance to patients and families on what questions to ask of their doctors and then make informed medical care decisions for safe and effective results. In addition to providing valuable information for patients and consumers, the book serves as a clinical manual for professionals, particularly young doctors, nurses, allied-health professionals, and students just starting out in the world of health care. It is full of practical information regarding the physician-patient relationship, and effective communication strategies for health care professionals. It serves as a handy reference to basic physiology, common diseases/disorders, and infectious conditions that affect men, women and children of all ages. It provides concise information on hundreds of the latest clinical diagnostic tests/procedures and medical/surgical treatments recommended by experienced doctors for their patients.