Health Consequences of Modernisatn: Evidence from Circumpolar Peoples (Cambridge Studies in Biological and Evolutionary Anthropology, Series Number 17) - Softcover

Shephard, Roy J.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521065569 ISBN 13: 9780521065566

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2008

Synopsis

What are the health consequences of a transition from an active 'hunter-gatherer' lifestyle to that of sedentary modern living? In this book, the impact of 'modernization' is assessed in various populations in the circumpolar regions. The hazards of living in polar regions, and the adaptations shown culturally, behaviourally and physically by the indigenous peoples are examined and the effect of changes in habitual activity, diet, and general lifestyle due to more urban living patterns on the body composition, pulmonary function and susceptibility to disease discussed. The implications of this switch are important not only for all those concerned about the survival of indigenous communities around the world, but for all of us living in an increasingly sedentary, urban environment. Anthropologists, physiologists and those interested in population fitness will find this a comprehensive and valuable volume.

About this title

From the Back Cover

What are the health consequences of a transition from an active 'hunter-gatherer' lifestyle to that of sedentary modern living? In this book, the impact of 'modernization' is assessed in various populations in the circumpolar regions. The hazards of living in polar regions, and the adaptations shown culturally, behaviourally and physically by the indigenous peoples are examined and the effect of changes in habitual activity, diet, and general lifestyle due to more urban living patterns on the body composition, pulmonary function and susceptibility to disease is discussed. The implications of this switch are important not only for all those concerned about the survival of indigenous communities around the world, but for all of us living increasingly sedentary, urban lives. Anthropologists, physiologists and those interested in population fitness will find this a comprehensive and valuable volume.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2008
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521065569
• ISBN 13: 9780521065566
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 324