This very detailed book begins with an interesting history and an explanation of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. It goes on to say that the number of cases of diabetes has risen recently and to give reasons for concern: cultural factors, diabetes in pregnancy, genetics, etc. Different treatments are explained in some detail for both types, and we go on to learn about complications: diabetic retinopathy, kidney and nerve damage, strokes, heart attacks and amputation. Prevention is emphasised all through the book, but there is special mention of the Diabetes Prevention programme in the United States, which has provided a lifestyle programme for overweight people with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). This programme has proved that diet and exercise can help keep people from developing full diabetes in many instances. A section on testing urine and blood, the pros and cons, is followed by a chapter on diet advice. Emotional distress is covered, the possibility of feeling stigmatised and depressed, and the fact that this is treatable. We are given the stories of Halle Berry and Sir Steve Redgrave, both of whom have had to come to terms with their Type 2 diabetes, and there are sections on scientific research for future treatments. Quotations from medical journals, diagrams, and quotes from young sufferers add to the realism of this production, and a detailed list of contacts in different countries, as well as the usual websites, books for further reading and index add to the usefulness. A book that can be read by adults as well as young people.