Lifestyle Choices Key to Reducing Top Causes of Death in the U.S.
Curious About America’s Leading Killers
KINGMAN — I was curious about what the most common causes of death among American’s are. My thought was that smoking related illnesses were probably the first, weight‑related illnesses were probably second and drunk driving would be third. What I found out doing my research was very interesting.
I found out that over 700 K people die from heart disease, over 600 K from cancer and over 220 K die from unintentional injuries or accidents. That might make us wonder what the best ways are to prevent death from these killers.
How to Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease
- Quit Smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of heart disease.
- Healthy Diet: Choose a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while limiting saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars.
- Physical Activity: Aim for at least 30–60 minutes of moderate‑intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Maintain Healthy Weight: Obesity is a risk factor for heart disease, so maintaining a healthy weight is crucial.
- Manage Stress: Stress can negatively impact heart health; find healthy outlets like exercise or meditation.
- Get Regular Checkups: Monitor cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels regularly.
- Sleep: Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night.
Cancer: The Top Three Deadliest Types
Lung Cancer
- Primary Prevention: Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.
- Environmental Steps: Limit exposure to radon, carcinogens, and pollutants.
- Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine.
Colorectal Cancer
- Screening: Begin regular screenings at age 45 for average‑risk individuals.
- Lifestyle: Balanced diet, physical activity, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol all reduce risk.
Pancreatic Cancer
- Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
- Quit Smoking: One of the most important steps to lower risk.
- Limit Alcohol & Chemicals: Moderate alcohol and follow workplace safety guidelines.
- Diet: Emphasize fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
The Common Thread: Healthy Living
It seems that the best way to protect our lives is to maintain a healthy lifestyle—keep a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet rich in whole foods, limit alcohol, and exercise 30–60 minutes most days.
Diet Center Tip of the Month
Thank you for reading Diet Center’s tip of the month. If you are unhappy with your weight, please call me today at 928‑753‑5066 or stop by 2601 Stockton Hill Rd Suite H4 in Kingman.
— Eunice
