Chronic respiratory diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, kill more than 4 million people every year, and affect hundreds of millions more. These diseases erode the health and well-being of the patients and have a negative impact on families and societies. This report raises awareness of the huge impact of chronic respiratory diseases worldwide, and highlights the risk factors as well as ways to prevent and treat these diseases.

Annotation In the western world, the prevalence of allergy and asthma has increased two- to threefold over the last 40 years and has reached epidemic proportions. This book represents the first complete document containing recommendations on the prevention of allergy and allergic asthma based on the current understanding of the immunological mechanisms of allergic reactions. Prevention of Allergy and Allergic Asthma was a collaborative project between the WAO (World Allergy Organization) and the WHO, launched in 1999. Following two interim reports, this monograph is the final report of the group of international experts involved in the project, ranging from basic immunologists to clinicians. Both theoretical and practical aspects are discussed, and constructive advice is given. Through its network of more than 70 member societies, the WAO will now promote the concept of prevention of allergies and allergic asthma worldwide to benefit patients prone to become allergic, to prevent the worsening of existing allergic diseases, and to reduce their high cost to society. This publication is recommended to specialists in allergy, pediatrics, pneumology and dermatology as well as to general practitioners, health care professionals, journalists, politicians and patients. Only by increasing the knowledge about allergic diseases throughout society can the right steps be taken for their effective prevention.

This is the second and updated version of the Textbook of Allergy for the Clinician. It is a unique book in the field of allergy. The uniqueness lies in the international character of the book with contributors representing both the East and West. This book represents the diversity of issues affecting patients in the specialty of allergy, asthma & immunology. There is some discussion of the basic mechanisms involved and extensive elaboration for the clinicians. This book will appeal to medical students, residents and fellows undergoing training as well as consultants in academic and clinical practice settings. The color plates, especially in the section on Aerobiology, will help in the interaction between the patient and consultant in identifying the plant or flora which is the causative factor. The differences and similarities between the Eastern and Western approaches in the practice of the specialty are being addressed for the first time in a book.

The Handbook of Systemic Drug Treatment in Dermatology helps prescribers and patients make rational decisions about drug treatment while considering known risks and potential unwanted effects. Written for dermatologists, family practitioners, pharmacists, and specialist nurses, this completely revised and updated second edition of a bestseller prov