Includes bibliographical references and index.

Contents: Taking charge of your health -- Stress: the constant challenge -- Psychological health -- Intimate relationships and communication -- Sex and your body -- Contraception -- Pregnancy and childbirth -- The use and abuse of psychoactive drugs -- The responsible use of alcohol -- Toward a tobacco-free society -- Nutrition basics -- Exercise for health and fitness Cardiovascular health -- Cancer -- Immunity and infection -- Sexually transmitted diseases -- Aging: a vital process -- Dying and death -- Conventional and complementary medicine: skill for the health care consumer -- Personal safety: protecting yourself from unintentional injuries and violence -- Appendices: A Nutritional content of popular items from fast-food restaurants -- B: A self-care guide for common medical problems.