How Not to Die (Too Soon): The Lies Weve Been Sold and the Policies That Can Save Us
By (Author) Devi Sridhar
Penguin Books Ltd
Viking
16th September 2025
12th June 2025
United Kingdom
General
Non Fiction
Public health and preventive medicine
Politics and government
Health, illness and addiction: social aspects
Health economics
Social impact of environmental issues
Fitness and diet
Population and demography
Hardback
336
Width 156mm, Height 240mm, Spine 40mm
750g
Your health isn't just your problem, it's everyone's Have you ever questioned why, despite the avalanche of self-help books and optimization hacks, we remain embroiled in multiple global health crises Populations worldwide are gaining life-shortening excess weight (even in poorer countries), and water contamination is rampant (even in richer countries). In such dire circumstances, a gratitude journal won't help. The stark reality is that we've been sold a monumental lie. The obsession with individual health optimization has distracted us from the real game-changer- holding governments accountable for policies that can significantly extend our lifespans. How Not to Die (Too Soon) is a vital, transformative guide that shifts the focus from individual responsibility to societal accountability. It's time to demand the changes that will save lives.
This is the standout book on how to live longer -- Chris van Tulluken, author of Ultra-Processed People
Drop everything and read this book -- George Monbiot, author of Regenesis
One of the most important voices of reason of the COVID era -- Owen Jones
How Not To Die (Too Soon) is a fascinating, challenging and thought provoking read. It completely changes the perspective on human health and who bears responsibility for protecting it. In an age when talk of the next pandemic seems ever-present, it also couldnt be more timely -- Nicola Sturgeon
One of the most brilliant scientists in the world -- Piers Morgan
An inspiring call to action for those seeking to build a more just and healthy society for all -- Grace Blakeley, author of Vulture Capitalism
In her thoughtful, incisive new book, Devi Sridhar delves into the potent forces shaping human health that often lie beyond the control of individuals. Writing with verve and clarity, she draws from scientific research as well as her own sound expertise to craft a compelling case for the policy changes that may help to prevent disease and untimely death -- Shilpa Ravella, author of A Silent Fire
Dr. Sridhar writes a deeply accessible and actionable book about how to make ourselves, our communities and our futures healthierI cant recommend it highly enough -- Chelsea Clinton
Devi Sridhar is a writer, broadcaster and world-leading expert in public health and wellbeing. She is Professor and Chair of Global Public Health at the University of Edinburgh and has advised the WHO, UNICEF, UNESCO and the Scottish, UK and German governments. Devi appears regularly on ITV and Channel 4 News, has a weekly column in the Guardian, tweets to over 300,000 followers, and recently became a certified Level 3 Personal Trainer. Her first book, Preventable, was a BBC Radio 4 Book of the Week and a Sunday Times bestseller.