The Science & Art of Longevity – Dr. Peter Attia, author

Dr. Attia’s Author’s Note frames this book perfectly and should be kept in mind if the readers’ background is not in a science field or of a technical nature. It can at times read as a guidebook for the healthcare provider, but the individual should be aware of and responsible for their own well being and health parameters.

The structure is well written and does in fact give the non-technical reader the ability to understand the underlying themes to longevity, aging, healthcare vs sickcare and at times gets the reader excited and ready to hear the “game plan” or “blueprint” for them to live a long life and begin implementing changes. However, as is stated, there is no cookie cutter version of a diet, fitness regime, medical care, or other “plan” for everyone. Biochemical differences between each human being must be taken into account.

The non-technical reader may find themselves a bit numb and having to re-read passages that delve into the research and data as the book strikes a “text book” feel similar to an advanced college biochemistry or human genetics class. The reader should not shy away from the difficult scientific terms or concepts and seek to broaden their understanding for their own benefits.

This should give that level of reader an opportunity to educate themselves on those unfamiliar items and themes, as the citations are available for further study. It should be the goal of all readers to continue to learn and expand their base of knowledge, even though the 21st century has created a short-attention span, quick fix, “give me the answer” rather than discover the answers mentality to many who even hold advanced degrees. In short, humans in developed nations have become lazy and want someone else to give the answers.

Aside from the textbook-like explanations of complex human processes, the information about how to asses ones own perceived issues and potential solutions are presented in clinical fashion. The only thing lacking in my opinion, is the guidance of where to seek out the treatments, tests, or scans for the person not currently under specialist care, located in rural settings, or how cost effective some of the procedures are for the average person keeping in mind, most people are one medical bill away from bankruptcy. This theme is touched on by Dr. Attia as a balance between “health care” and “sick care” and how much prevention costs vs treatment. For some, prevention costs are as unreachable unfortunately.

Overall, I like this book and would recommend it to everyone regardless of your comprehension level or understanding of scientific terms and methods. Keeping in mind, there is no game plan at the end of the chapters or end of the book for you, the reader, to follow to increase your own personal longevity. This book offers up the tools for your toolbox, the reader will still need to learn how to use the tools and when each tool is applied in their quest for longevity and increased quality of life as they age.