Geriatric Medicine Introduction

Author: Li Jiansheng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-01-01
Features: Recently, Mr. Zhou Guangzhao, a renowned physicist in China and currently the President of the China Association for Science and Technology, delivered a report on "Complexity Adaptive Systems, Science, and Social Development" on Central Education Television, which has had a significant impact on the field of science education, especially inspiring middle-aged and young scholars engaged in life science research. Indeed, the emerging discipline of complex system science, which integrates reductionism, control theory, rationalism, and system theory, has brought new hope to the development of life science, which combines natural and social sciences, as well as medical science. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient medical science rooted in biology, intertwined with physics, mathematics, and permeated with humanistic and philosophical thought, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of China. It possesses both scientific and humanistic attributes and is a discipline that effectively integrates natural and social sciences. Undoubtedly, the deepening research into TCM theory and the improvement of its clinical efficacy require the adoption of complexity science concepts and the establishment of research methodologies based on complexity science. Currently, science faces two major themes: intervening in sub-health conditions and preventing and treating modern refractory diseases. TCM also faces challenges in addressing difficulties related to cultural backgrounds, international promotion, and the efficacy verification of herbal compound treatments. It requires the efforts of the medical community, as well as multidisciplinary participation and comprehensive research. Emphasis should be placed on the integration of synthesis and analysis, macro and micro perspectives, and the implementation of a "broad and inclusive" strategy. The relationship between inheritance and development must be properly managed, with equal attention given to applying modern scientific and technological theories, methods, and tools, while also adhering to the intrinsic principles of TCM. It is essential not to impose rigid frameworks but to interpret the scientific essence of TCM, creating a relaxed environment that encourages free exploration, original innovation, and the continuous cultivation of new growth points in the discipline. This will contribute meaningfully to the advancement of life science and human health.
Geriatric medicine in TCM is a vital component of its disciplinary strengths. Historically, it was integrated into general pulse diagnosis. However, over the past century, significant changes in diseases have occurred, and the prevention and treatment of geriatric conditions have gradually gained attention in the medical community. Since 1992, the World Health Organization (WHO) has included it in its priority research projects and invited global bids. As a result, clinical diagnosis and treatment, medical education, and scientific research in geriatric medicine have made substantial progress, gradually forming a group of highly skilled scholars who have made significant contributions to human health and longevity.
Professor Li Jiansheng of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the editor-in-chief of An Introduction to Geriatric Medicine, has shared his insights on the development of population aging, the concepts of gerontology, geriatrics, and geriatric diseases, as well as the progress and direction of geriatric ophthalmology. The book offers a concise overview of aging and diseases in the human body's various systems, making it highly practical. Given the compilers' diligent research and enthusiastic learning, which led to the creation of this book, I am deeply gratified to have had the opportunity to contribute this preface for clinicians and medical students to reference.