The authors' stated purpose is to present a monograph for the use of the practicing physician rather than for the investigator in this field. This purpose is remarkably well achieved in that the book is essentially practical with theorizing kept at a minimum. It is thoroughly authentic and informative concerning all questions of etiology, diagnosis and therapy that may interest the general practitioner, while it is sufficiently concise and clear for readability and immediate application.
Almost half the text is devoted to the physiology and pathogenesis of obesity, with chapters on the role of psychologic factors, the hypothalamus, cerebral, endocrine and genetic elements, water retention and disorders in the use of energy. There is a thoughtful chapter on contraindications to weight reduction. The rest of the text deals with methods and technics of therapy, including charts, composition of foods and sample menus as well as careful and critical evaluations of