'Think Like Your Doctor': A doctor's take on common ailments, premature deaths

rajeev-book

Renowned gastroenterologist, writer and social activist Dr Rajeev Jayadevan's latest book Think Like Your Doctor was launched on Tuesday at IMA House, Kochi. Padma Shri Dr Philip Augustine released the first copy of the book.

An extension of Jayadevan's popular online column, Everyday Health, the book contains a series of multidimensional articles that address various facets of common health problems. The book answers questions about fatty liver, cholesterol, jaundice, and much more, and busts myths. Jayadevan has also painted the cover image for the book. His painting, The Fallen Leaf, is a representation of premature death. He said that a large number of deaths were caused due to sheer ignorance, and can be prevented with a little care. Think Like Your Doctor also mentions ways in which one can reduce the risk of untimely death, particularly by accidents. A number of tragic events in the recent past, including the death of Malayali violinist Balabhaskar in a road accident, influenced Jayadevan in his writings. "The book is one of its kind," said Augustine.

Jayadevan said that he has tried to write the book in a way that appeals to both medical professionals and laymen. "The book is like a pond with steps. You can step down into the pond as deep as you want, or as little as you want," he said. "I have avoided difficult medical jargons as far as possible."

Published by Manorama Books, the book can be bought online on Amazon. Jayadevan has pledged entire royalties of the book towards charity works of the Indian Medical Association. 

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