"Humans live longer now than they ever have in their more than three hundred thousand years of existence on earth. And most (if not all) of the advances that have permitted the human lifespan to double have happened in living memory. Extra Life looks at vaccines, seat belts, pesticides, and more, and how each of our scientific advancements have prolonged human life. This book is a deep dive into the sciences--perfect for younger readers who enjoy modern history as well as scientific advances"--Provided by the publisher.

"Adapted for young readers"--Cover.

The speckled monster (vaccines) -- The detectives (public health data) -- Mapping the Seventh Ward (social epidemiology) -- Safe as milk (pasteurization) -- Beyond the placebo effect (drug testing and regulation) -- The mold that changed the world (antibiotics) -- The rocket sled (automobile safety) -- Feed the world ( the decline of famine) -- The work left to do.