The concept of the early life developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD) in adults has stimulated a new approach to understanding disease trajectories, with major public health implications. Indeed, the principle of the 'lifecourse of disease' now influences health policies internationally. Environmental influences during pregnancy and early life that affect lifelong health are well documented, but there is a new focus on the preconception period and the significance of paternal health on the fetus. This fully revised second edition highlights scientific and clinical advances in the field, exploring new understanding of mechanisms such as epigenetics and the increasingly recognised role of external influences, including pollution. The book is structured logically, covering environment, clinical outcomes, mechanisms of DOHaD, interventions throughout the lifespan and finally implications for public health and policy. Clinicians and scientists alike will improve their understanding of the developmental origins of health and disease with this essential text.

This updated and expanded new edition takes full account of recent developments and conveys the basic science underlying a wide range of clinical conditions including atherosclerosis, hypertension, diabetes, and pregnancy. As with the first edition, the publication provides an introductory account of vascular biology before leading on to explain mechanisms involved in disease processes. The breadth and range of subjects covered in this new edition do full justice to this increasingly important area of clinical research and medicine. This multidisciplinary approach will suit the needs of all those seeking to refresh their knowledge with the very latest advances from basic science through to clinical practice.

The concept of vascular biology has emerged and expanded rapidly over the last quarter of the 20th century, and with research in this area has come improved understanding of a wide range of clinical conditions. For both specialists and newcomers to the field in search of a broad overview, and also for the non-specialist requiring an up-to-date insight into progress and its implications, this book provides a concise resource. The multidisciplinary team of contributors cover topics ranging from normal and pathological aspects of endothelial function to the role of the vasculature in haemostasis, atherosclerosis and hypertension.