It is becoming increasingly apparent that certain diseases occur at higher frequencies in different ethnic groups (e.g. Afro-Caribbeans and sickle-cell anaemia). The causes for such differences are only just being investigated and the factors involved are clearly both genetic and non-genetic. The biological complexity lies in the interaction of genetic variation and lifestyle differences. Cultural differences range from diet to traditional remedies, from religious beliefs to marriage patterns and much more.
This multidisciplinary volume discusses these factors, with contributions from geneticists, medics, anthropologists, epidemiologists and social scientists. Anyone considering variation in health experience due to ethnic factors would be enriched by reading the different perspectives presented in this volume.

Nutrition is viewed traditionally as the specific dietary requirements of different age groups, without exploring diet in the context of a life-long contributory factor to well-being. Nutrition Through the Life Cycle summarises what is known about the relationship between diet and health at different points in the life cycle, and the nutritional requirements of individuals of different ages. Nutrition policy and health promotion are discussed, together with how dietary interventions can provide long-term benefits to individuals and populations. Also covered are the major dietary challenges that exist in modern society, including the rise in incidence of obesity in both children and adolescents, anaemia in children and adolescents, and diet-related cancers. This book is published in association with Leatherhead Food International.