Originally published in 1985, this collection of essays expands the understanding of both health itself and the ways in which women may experience their roles as consumers and providers of health care. The authors represent a number of disciplines - anthropology, sociology and political science - and examine issues of public concern on both sides of the Atlantic. Many important health questions are discussed, including the increasing use of high technology methods on obstetrical care, HRT, the treatment of frail elderly women, occupational health, health issues of sport and fitness, and health care systems of the UK, US and Canada as they relate to women in various social circumstances.

Ellen Lewis is Professor Emerita in the Department of Anthropology, University of Iowa, USA. Virginia Olesen is Professor Emerita at the Center for Health and Community, University of California San Francisco, USA.