Now in its third edition, Staying Alive provides readers with a fresh perspective on health, health care, and illness in Canada and abroad. Aiming to bring about positive change to these health care systems and grounded in a human rights approach to health, this unique collection includes chapters on the social construction of illness and disability, social determinants of health, and current critical issues in the field. The third edition has been thoroughly updated and includes recent national and international developments in health care, with current world statistics and an emphasis on austerity-related changes and their effects on health and health care systems. This vital resource includes chapters on pharmaceutical policy, social class, women's health, Indigenous people's health, and insight into the impact of economic forces such as globalization and privatization in health care. Packed with recommended readings and websites, critical thinking questions, and a glossary, this essential text is an invaluable read for undergraduate students, educators, and practitioners in health studies, nursing, and public health programs.