Indispensable for anyone who provides care to patients of different cultural/ethnic backgrounds, this handy guide presents practical, concise information that could impact patient and family care. An introduction to people from more than 180 countries is presented alphabetically for easy reference. Information regarding major language, health care beliefs, ethnic or racial specific diseases, and national childhood immunizations is among the valuable data included to provide readers with essential information needed for basic assessment. Countries are organized alphabetically to provide quick access to important cultural information. National childhood immunization schedules are provided along with the latest information from the World Health Organization to ensure timely and accurate information. Culture data categories are included, such as health care beliefs or health team relationships to assist the reader in developing an individualized patient assessment. Brief descriptions of each country's topography are included with maps to illustrate potential environmental etiologies of an illness. References and related readings are provided to facilitate search for in-depth information. Country names, information, and topographic maps have been thoroughly updated. A breakdown of countries is included wherever necessary to illustrate diversity within specific cultural groups; e.g. Laos has two very distinctive cultures. More historical and political information is included within the discussion of the countries to provide more key background information. An increased emphasis is provided on how a population appears in the worldview and how their religious backgrounds play such a big role in decision-making. Expanded content on specific ethnic groups provides a more thorough understanding. More information is incorporated about naturalistic healing and practices as they relate to the care of the person within that cultural or ethnic group. The bibliographies are expanded for some countries to provide a more complete reference. A new author, Carolyn E. D'Avanzo, RN, DNSc, brings a wealth of experience in international health to the third edition.