Among the various theories proposed to account for the process of aging, the free radical theory is of practical interest since it includes the possibility of retarding this process by administrating natural or synthetic antioxidants and free radical scavengers. the book "free radicals and aging" summarizes knowledge accumulated during recent years in 42 reviews written by experts in the field. aspects of free radical involvement in the intrinsic aging process and in age-related diseases, as well as the importance of the pro-antioxidant balance throughout life are discussed. epidemiological studies from several european countries are reported showing correlations between low plasma levels of essential antioxidants and the occurence of coronary heart disease, cancer and cataract formation. appropriate nutrition as well as prophylactic and therapeutic use of antioxidants are considered. this book represents a milestone in the field of age-related free radical biology and medicine. with contributions by: a. azzi, b. chance, r.g. cutler, h. esterbauer, p.h. evans, f. gey, c. guarneri, d. harman, n.i. krinsky, m. meydani, j. miquel, a. mori, l. packer, c. rice-evans, m. simic, a. taylor, t. yoshikawa.