Maxcy-Rosenau Public Health and Preventive Medicine

Abstract

This latest and weightiest edition of a perennial public health favorite is being published only six years after the 11th edition "to stay abreast of the expanding science and practice of public health." Have the science and practice of public health expanded so much so soon? Apparently so. Up-to-date chapters describe "new" diseases (eg, toxic shock syndrome and the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) and "new" public health concerns (eg, nuclear war, homicide and spouse abuse, ergonomics, and technology assessment). Some "old" diseases and other public health concerns such as dracunculiasis, diabetes mellitus, digestive diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, disabling visual disorders, and family planning programs and practices were either marginally present or scattered throughout in earlier editions. Now, each deservedly has a chapter of its own, providing better balance and more extensive coverage than before. Perhaps the editor will be able to maintain this balance and coverage in future editions as well if