Reference Reviews

Doug's Student Reference Room

Perspectives on Diseases and Disorders: Diabetes. Edited by Tom Metcalf and Gena Metcalf. 136 p. Detroit, MI: Thomson Gale, 2008. ISBN: 978-0-7377-3873-5. $34.95.

Perspectives on Diseases and Disorders: Diabetes The first section of this volume introduces the growing problem of diabetes and provides background on symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, including new treatments and a search for a cure for type I diabetes. The second section examines the controversies surrounding research about the disease and includes competing views on the role obesity plays in contracting type II diabetes, the effectiveness of chromium supplements and herbal remedies in treatment, and the use of embryonic stem cells in research. This section offers a perfect platform for teaching students about the benefits of doing careful research of one’s own medical conditions and of discussing that research with a doctor. The final section offers personal accounts about dealing with diabetes; Della Reese and former Mr. Universe Doug Burns are featured, and their stories offer encouragement to take control of one’s total health in managing the disease. The more accessible story of a cruise director includes helpful advice about ways to stay healthy and minimize the disease’s risks. Recommended for junior high and high school libraries.

—Doug Achterman