The most impressive aspect of this book is that it is comprehensive with respect to current best evidence of cardiac and related diseases, yet it remains succinct and extremely well designed for the patient.
I began to review this book and others due to an interest in identifying some of the best references for the patient conducting research within this domain. The author has succeeded in categorizing the issues cleanly. There are an incredible 55 chapters followed by a much needed glossary. However, the most impressive inclusion is a feature often missing from books of this type - a robust bibliography of the medical literature providing the evidence as well as a vehicle for the reader to explore further.
The knowledge here is inherently dynamic, changing often as new research refutes or supports prior claims. Wilde (the author) brings a unique and much needed mix. He targets different patient populations such as "women smokers" or "women and anger". And, although there are several case studies provided as examples, it appears he has been successful in limiting empirical or anecdotal data in favor of the literature. For example, chapters on fibrinogen and Omega 3 fatty acids are concluded with the study results and a nicely written summary. The book is designed quite well to readily foster a clearer understand for a patient and his/her family as well as encouraging the behavior of evidence seeking by critically reviewing the literature. As a clinician, this pattern of information seeking is encouraged and I'm excited that this behavior is also endorsed in Wilde's book. I think it is succinct enough to be read through from cover to cover for those with significant interest in the latest knowledge of cardiovascular illness as well as used a quick reference for topics such as viral and dietary etiologies, surgical risks, gender differences, comorbid risk factors such as sleep apnea, etc. I'm impressed.