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Lifestyle in Medicine

By Emily Hansen, Gary Easthope

Published November 21st 2006 by Routledge – 208 pages

Series: Critical Studies in Health and Society

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Description

In Western societies, 'lifestyle' as an explanation for health and illness has become increasingly popular.

Lifestyle in Medicine explores the ambiguity of the term 'lifestyle' and the way it is conceived and applied within medicine. Based on real doctor-patient consultations and in-depth interviews with doctors, the book discusses:

  • the history behind current medical use of lifestyle
  • the variable usage of the 'lifestyle' concept in different medical settings
  • critical writings and recent shifts in sociological thinking about lifestyle
  • public and government concerns about unhealthy lifestyles
  • the ways in which health is discussed, doctor to patient.

Evidence-based in its approach, this book uses original research to highlight this topical issue and provides professional and lay perspectives on health and illness. It is essential reading for students and academics of medical sociology, health and allied health studies and anyone interested in health and society.

Contents

1. Lifestyle as a Medical Explanatory Model 2. Is the Medical Lifestyle Approach to Maintaining Health and Preventing Disease Successful? 3. Assumptions Underlying the Medical Approach to Lifestyle 4. Methodology and Research Methods 5. Lifestyle in Medical and Lay Texts 6. Doctors’ Understanding of Lifestyle 7. Reflections on Lifestyle in Medicine

Author Bio

Gary Easthope is an Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Tasmania, Australia. He has eclectic research interests and has published books, book chapters and articles on education, social research methods, ethnicity and health, disability, the wilderness movement, drug use and alternative medicine.

Emily Hansen is a Research Fellow in the School of Medicine at the University of Tasmania. Her research interests include medical sociology, medical anthropology, general practice and primary health care.