Published in collaboration with the Federal Centre for Health Education, Cologne.

A wide-ranging analysis of the ways in which health promotion approaches can be used to help the chronically ill and disabled exploit their potential t lead healthy and productive lives. Citing a number of promising developments in recent years, the book calls for a fundamental change in societys attitudes towards the chronically ill, whereby emphasis is placed on their potential and due attention is given to their need for support that goes beyond medical care. With this goal in mind, the book evaluates a wealth of recent experiences and research findings in order to identify practical measures that can be pursued by the health care sector, by public and private organizations, and by the chronically ill and their families. Three main chronic conditions are considered: coronary heart disease, cancer, and chronic pain. The book features 54 papers authored by experts in cardiology, oncology, pain management, rheumatology, psychology, physiology, rehabilitation medicine and epidemiology, and by representatives of numerous self-help groups throughout Europe. Papers are presented in twelve main parts. Papers in the first part set out a conceptual framework for helping the chronically ill cope with the stress of illness and enhance their health potential. The second part explores the importance of self-reliance, self-help, and self-determination in patients recovering from a heart attack. The needs of cancer patients are covered in the third part, which considers the role that alternative therapies and behavioural approaches can play in extending survival time and enhancing the quality of life. The fourth part, on chronic pain, points to the need for a combined involvement of social, psychological, and medical knowledge in the management of chronic pain. Other chapters relate experiences in changing public health policies, in creating supportive environments, in strengthening community action, and in developing the personal coping skills of the chronically ill and disabled. Information ranges from advice on how self-help groups can gain media support, through a discussion of the reasons why the chronically ill seek alternative therapies, through descriptions of experiences with a variety of new therapies for helping heart patients, cancer patients, families with a handicapped child, and persons suffering from chronic pain, migraine, and rheumatism. The remaining chapters, concerned with the need to reorient health services, consider the specific changes that need to be made in training, health research, and health care. Over 500 references to the literature are included.

DC.EURO

eng.

WHODOC

WHO monograph

4