For Fortysomething Men, a Wealth of Information
“Male Menopause” By Jed Diamond; Sourcebooks Inc. $22.95 357 pages
Jed Diamond, a California psychotherapist, advances the theory of male menopause by noting the many changes that men endure between 40 and 55. These include: a drop in hormone production, diminishing sexual vigor and mood swings. Perhaps most comforting to readers are the stories Diamond tells about real men struggling with midlife issues. Men can see they are not alone in their struggles and may even recognize the value of articulating how they’re feeling to friends, therapists or loved ones. It should also be helpful to women who are confused about perceived changes in their partners.
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“Dr. D’s Handbook for Men Over 40” By Peter Dorsen, M.D.; Chronimed $23.95 230 pages
This is a combination psychological-physical health book for men making the transition to midlife. And it may be more appropriate for those who are either feeling blue about turning 40 or who are recognizing the need to get in shape for the first time. Dr. Peter Dorsen, who is called Dr. D by his patients, acknowledges that a lot about aging is mental and devotes many pages to the psychological aspects of good health. Another valuable chapter reviews how prescriptions for exercise have changed in recent years, especially for people 40 and older.
In addition:
Men who want to stay current on personal health matters would enjoy the Harvard Men’s Health Watch newsletter. This monthly newsletter, which runs about eight pages, meets the usual high standards of most health letters produced by academia. Each letter features a specific issue in detail as well as provides the latest news briefs on drugs, preventive health issues, risk factors for illness and other topics. There is also a column devoted to readers’ questions. Subscription is $32 a year. To order, call (800) 829-3341 or write to Harvard Men’s Health Watch, P.O. Box 420099, Palm Coast, FL 32142-0099.
Next week: Men’s health continues with books on prostate cancer and diabetes.
