subject: Stop These Top Health Problems In Their Tracks [print this page] Many people mistakenly believe that their genes are the main factor in determining how healthy they will be. It's true that many diseases and tendencies to disease are passed down genetically but how you live your life is far more important in keeping you healthy than what's written in your genes.
The Center For Disease Control (CDC) has compiled a list of the top health concerns for Americans today. Many of these problems can be partially or completely prevented if you take the steps needed to safeguard your health.
In the United States we are facing the following top health problems:
1. Heart disease - According to the American Heart Association cardiovascular disease was responsible for over 34% of deaths in the United States and is the single leading cause of death in America today. There are many things you can do to greatly reduce your chances of developing heart disease. Stop smoking, maintain a healthy weight, eat a diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables while cutting back on the salt and fat.
2. Cancer - According to the American Cancer Society, cancer is a leading cause of death in America today and all cancer caused by smoking and the heavy use of alcohol can be prevented completely. The ACS estimates that in 2010 of the 570,000 estimated deaths that will be caused by cancer, over one third of the deaths are expected to be caused by tobacco use and another third will be caused by obesity, physical inactivity and poor nutrition. Also, another 1,000,000 cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed that could have been prevented by the proper use of sunblock.
3. Stroke - Stroke is one of the major killers in America, ranked number four for men and number three for women. When an artery in the brain is blocked by a clot the part of the brain supplied by the blood vessel can't get blood and oxygen. This causes the cells of that part of the brain to die and consequently the part of the body that it controls will stop functioning. Making some changes in your lifestyle can greatly reduce your risk of stroke. Smoking, being overweight, diabetes, living a sedentary life and improper nutrition can all contribute to the risk of stroke.
4. Diseases of the Respiratory System - Diseases that block the flow of air in your lungs are called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Bronchitis and emphysema are common COPD diseases and are a leading cause of death in the U.S. Primarily caused by smoking, COPD causes damage to your lungs that cannot be reversed. Stop smoking now to drastically cut your chances of developing COPD.
5. Type 2 Diabetes - Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and affects 90% of the people with the disease. Causing nerve damage, kidney damage, heart disease and even blindness type 2 diabetes is a leading cause of death in the United States. Lifestyle is a major factor in the development of diabetes so lower your weight, keep your blood pressure under control and stick to a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits.
