Review by Choice Review
According to Eysenck, an internationally known and respected scientist and author, smoking, by itself, has a more limited effect on the development of cancer and coronary heart disease than is currently accepted. He suggests that these smoking-related diseases are caused by multiple factors interacting in a synergistic fashion. Research referred to by Eysenck demonstrates that reactions to stress and personality type may be more closely associated with heart disease and cancer than is smoking. He views claims advocating that stopping smoking reduces cancer and coronary heart disease as simplistic and not necessarily a complete assessment of the research literature. Eysenck reviews the research on smoking and its relationship to coronary heart disease and cancer, and considers the evidence and conclusions drawn from this research. He reevaluates those conclusions and suggests a broader model which includes psychosocial factors. This well-written book also has a valuable reference section and an appendix with a short "Disease-Proneness Inventory." Must reading for anyone interested in health promotion and the psychosocial relationship to illness. Academic and public library collections.-R. L. Jones, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey Medical Center
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
