Skip to main content Accessibility help

We use cookies to distinguish you from other users and to provide you with a better experience on our websites. Close this message to accept cookies or find out how to manage your cookie settings.

Close cookie message
×
  1. Home
  2. Search

Refine search

Refine search

Access:
Content type:
Publication date:
Apply   From and To filters
Subject: Show more
Journals Show more
Publishers: Show more
Societies Show more
Series: Show more
Collections: Show more

Actions for selected content:

Select all | Deselect all
  • View selected items
  • Export citations
  • Download PDF (zip)
  • Save to Kindle
  • Save to Dropbox
  • Save to Google Drive

Save Search

You can save your searches here and later view and run them again in "My saved searches".

Please provide a title, maximum of 40 characters.
Cancel
×

2 results

  • Chapter 2 - Paradigms in Medicine and Society

  • from Section 1 - An Introduction
  • Edited by Richard Pinder, Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, London, Christopher-James Harvey, Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, London, Ellen Fallows, British Society of Lifestyle Medicine
  • Book:
    Essential Lifestyle Medicine
    Published online:
    01 May 2025
    Print publication:
    15 May 2025, pp 15-22

  • Summary

    Western medicine has undergone significant changes over time. Initially rooted in mysticism, it has evolved into what we experience today as an empirical, scientific discipline. Modern medicine is increasingly associated in the public consciousness with advanced technologies and miracle drugs. However, critiques by intellectuals such as Ivan Illich highlight issues such as medical expansionism and iatrogenesis – the harm caused by medical intervention. Socialised medicine systems across the world face huge challenges, including financing and workforce. Commercial determinants are increasingly recognised as influencing adverse health outcomes, alongside the role of the pharmaceutical and wider health technology sectors. Lifestyle Medicine emerges as a paradigm shift, emphasising preventive measures and lifestyle changes alongside more technologically driven treatments. Balancing evidence-based interventions with holistic care is crucial for overall wellbeing and the sustainability of healthcare and population overall.