cover image FACING THE FIFTIES: A Man's Reference Guide to Mid-Life Health

FACING THE FIFTIES: A Man's Reference Guide to Mid-Life Health

Gordon Ehlers, . . M. Evans, $21.95 (320pp) ISBN 978-0-87131-954-8

This compendium of medical information is addressed to men in their 50s, but much of the advice could apply to other adult males. With the assistance of journalist Miller, Ehlers, a practicing physician and faculty member at the Swedish Hospital Family Medicine Residency in Colorado, covers almost every aspect of physical and mental health. There are separate sections on cardiovascular and respiratory disease, digestive problems, cancer and the musculoskeletal system. Included also is a chapter on how to deal with stress and depression. Perhaps of particular interest to aging males is a lengthy discussion of sexual issues that arise in middle age, such as a decreased sex drive owing to hormonal changes. Ehlers offers advice for dealing with the physical changes and emotional problems that may result, and suggests ways to continue to have a satisfactory sex life. In fact, all of the medical information presented here is clearly written and practical. Ehlers is explicit about the dangers of smoking and also gives useful advice about what kinds of medical tests one might want to request. He details ways to improve health through exercise, diet and lifestyle choices. Although the topics covered are widely available in other home health books, 50-something men looking for a more age-targeted reference book will welcome this addition. (Apr.)