Published by a division of the DANA Foundation, this book was written for the general reader. It translates research findings into lay language and provides a full glossary of scientific terms, explaining what is known about brain function, and psychiatric and neurological disorders. It is beautifully illustrated with colour photographs, and interactive diagrams on the accompanying CD‐ROM.
I wondered whether I would find advice on keeping my brain healthy, or whether practical advice for a carer of someone with brain disease would be offered. The US based editors list organisations supporting people with brain related disorders affecting both children and adults, and much is relevant to an international readership. For example, in a section on Alzheimer's disease, information reprinted from the American patient organisation covers legal and financial matters, care provision and carer coping strategies. These are concerns for all populations, despite differences in social and health service provision. Factual content is current; information on deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease is included, for example. At times I disliked the phrasing, but this book would certainly provide a starting point for further discussion of one's own condition with a treating physician, and be more truthful than some newspaper articles or television programmes.
The DANA guide to brain health should supplement written information from one's own doctor on diagnosis, treatment and prognosis, or advice from a disease specific patient organisation. The use of lay language and wealth of fascinating information on brain development and healthy functioning makes it very useful, and yes it does discuss how we can all look after our brains (wear protective headgear when cycling, get enough sleep). This publication would be a welcome addition to a patient waiting area.