This is a new edition of the best-selling textbook for students in the Sociology of Health & Illness. The First Edition was widely praised for its clarity, accessibility, and comprehensive coverage. All of these features are retained in the new edition. The result is a book that academics and students in the sociology of health and illness will use as a ‘first stop’ to study. Free of jargon, intuitive about student needs and well versed in course requirements, the new edition will refresh old readers and delight new ones.