Robert T. Croyle – författare

As screening programs for HIV, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, gene abnormalities and other risk factors continue to proliferate, questions continue to be raised about the impact of these programs on the emotions and behaviour of participants. Now, for the first time, the widely scattered body of research on the effects of risk factor screening is comprehensively reviewed and evaluated. An international team of recognized experts summariszes and discusses what is known about the psychosocial consequences of risk factor testing. The volume is essential reading for professionals and policymakers concerned with the prevention of acute and chronic disease.

The demand for health information continues to increase, but the ability of health professionals to provide it clearly remains variable. The aim of this book is (1) to summarize and synthesize research on the selection and presentation of data pertinent to public health, and (2) to provide practical suggestions, based on this research summary and synthesis, on how scientists and other public health practitioners can better communicate data to the public, policy makers, and the press in typical real-world situations. Because communication is complex and no one approach works for all audiences, the authors emphasize how to communicate data "better" (and in some instances, contrast this with how to communicate data "worse"), rather than attempting a cookbook approach. The book contains a wealth of case studies and other examples to illustrate major points, and actual situations whenever possible. Key principles and recommendations are summarized at the end of each chapter. This book will stimulate interest among public health practitioners, scholars, and students to more seriously consider ways they can understand and improve communication about data and other types of scientific information with the public, policy makers, and the press. Improved data communication will increase the chances that evidence-based scientific findings can play a greater role in improving the public's health.

How do individuals conceive illness and symptoms? Do theirconceptions conflict with the physician's views of theirillness, and what happens if they do? This book thoroughlyexplores the field of disease representation, describes anddiscusses lay illness models in a variety of social, histo-rical and cultural contexts.