The Advocate Guide to Gay Men's Health and Wellness

Frank Spinelli, M.D.
Alyson Books

Scan most health and fitness books aimed at men and you'll find the assumption that the reader is heterosexual. Even some books focusing on male sexuality treat the fact that some men have sex with men coyly or as an afterthought, or ignore the possibility altogether. Dr. Spinelli argues that this is indicative of a general reluctance among the medical community to discuss homosexuality with patients, a timidity that ignores the special needs and issues of gay men. (With that understanding, it's odd that the book is specifically marketed towards gay men, not gay and bisexual men, or that awkward demographic conglomerate, men who have sex with men.) What are those special needs? There's the obvious, like increased risk of HIV infection and rectal cancer. But Spinelli begins by reminding the reader of some other facts, like the higher-than-average rates of depression, substance abuse, and suicide amongst queer men. Whether due to external pressures, internalized homophobia or a combination of both, many gay and bi men simply don't do a good job taking care of themselves. So this book offers a holistic attitude, emphasizing the importance of wellness, healthy lifestyles, and open communication with your doctor. Giving a broad overview of major health issues from sexually transmitted infections to exercise programs to aging, and written in a casual, down-to-earth style, the book is as much a compendium of common sense as a medical guide. Although Spinelli's mix of medical knowledge and chatty prose occasionally hits a strange note (One of his first pieces of advice is to begin a "strict daily facial regimen;" not bad advice, but why is it given primary importance?), his matter-of-fact attitude is a welcome change of pace from health books that are either too dry or too ignorant of the needs of queer men. This is a valuable reference book that all queer guys should consider adding to their library.