Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common type of cancer among men, killing some 42,000 every year. Two new guides seek to provide the latest information on the disease and the treatments available. Written by leading medical experts, the American Cancer Society's Complete Guide is an accessible and comprehensive survey that describes PCa and explains who is at risk, backing up its discussions with statistics. Symptoms, early detection, and what to expect when seeing a doctor are also addressed. Confusing diagnostic medical terminology and acronyms are explained in the text and conveniently repeated in the glossary. The volume also outlines treatment options-e.g., watchful waiting, hormonal therapy, radiation and brachytherapy, surgery, and cryotherapy-and details the combination of factors that predict outcomes. There is advice on how to manage the medical establishment, deal with insurance, assure emotional support for the patient and his family, and contact support groups. Bubley (genitourinary oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Ctr., Boston) explains how, owing to increased public awareness and improved screening tests, PCa is more often detected at its earliest and most treatable stages. With over 25 years' experience in conventional and experimental prostate cancer therapies, Bubley clearly discusses the natural remedies and alternative medicines that can complicate treatment and may have adverse consequences if the doctor is not kept informed of their use. Bubley hopes his overview will open and encourage patient/physician dialog about treatment options and possible changes in diet and lifestyle to help maintain wellness and improve prostate health. Both guides are good choices for consumer health collections, but if funds are limited, stick to the excellent American Cancer Society title.-James Swanton, Harlem Hosp. Lib., New York Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.