The Top 7 Heath Related Causes of Death

Are you committed to staying healthy? If so, you can safeguard your health by taking preventative steps against these top 7 health-related causes of death. If you have any questions about your risks for any of these conditions, you should consult your personal doctor at your next appointment.

1. Heart Disease

People who are overweight, have a family history of heart disease, or smoke are most at risk for this condition, which can lead to a heart attack. Make sure you stay at a healthy weight, eat a balanced, nutritious diet, and exercise regularly to reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

2. Cancer

Cancer can affect people of all ages. However, those who are obese, use alcohol and tobacco, or have a family history of a certain type of cancer could be more likely to develop this disease. While there is no known way to prevent cancer, limiting your sun exposure, maintaining a healthy weight, and doing regular cancer checks with your doctor can lower your risk.

Cancer awareness

3. Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases

This category includes COPD and asthma along with other respiratory issues. The best thing you can do to avoid developing this disease is to quit smoking as soon as possible. Your doctor can provide you with the necessary resources and help to stop smoking today.

4. Stroke

Those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease are more at risk of having a stroke. To avoid having a stroke, it’s important to stay at a healthy weight and take steps to control your diabetes with the help of your doctor. You should also consider quitting smoking to reduce your risk.

5. Alzheimer’s Disease

This disease is more likely to affect women and is believed to be partially connected to your genetic history of the disease. By eating a diverse, plant-heavy diet, maintaining an active lifestyle, and keeping your mind alert and active with games, puzzles, and learning opportunities, you can help lower your risk for developing Alzheimer’s.

6. Diabetes

Diabetes comes in two forms–Type 1 and Type 2–and can be more likely to affect those who are overweight. You can reduce your risk by living a healthy lifestyle. If you have a family history of diabetes, it’s essential that you maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise and have regular blood sugar checks.

7. Influenza

Influenza–commonly called the flu–affects people who are older, small children, and those with chronic or immune conditions. It is most active in the colder weather, so it is important to always get a flu shot at the beginning of each winter season. In addition, washing your hands frequently and covering your nose or mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze can help stop the spread of the flu. If you develop flu-like symptoms, it’s important to call your doctor.

In general, exercising for at least 30 minutes several times per week and eating a nutritious diet are the two best ways to protect your health and avoid these 7 most common causes of death. However, you can also control your weight, stop smoking, limit your sugar and alcohol intake, and keep your mind active. Your doctor can help you make a plan for healthy living based on your unique situation. Keep up with Aging Healthy Today for more tips on how to take control of your life and health.