Black health & fitness section

Certain health issues are simply beyond our control such as the onset of an unusual illness, or the impact of hereditary factors and genetics. But there are many things that we can do to improve our health status. YOu know the mantra: Eat right, get adequate rest, exercise regularly. These are simple, proactive lifestyle habits that can make a significant difference in the quality of our lives. Achieving and maintaining optimal health is often the result of practicing these basic, common-sense "do's.'"

A couple of "don'ts" are equally important. The first: Don't smoke. Nearly one-third of all cancer deaths in the U.S. is attributable to cigarette smoking. Smoking also increases the risk of chronic lung disease, respiratory disorders, heart disease and other health problems. Smokers accumulate high levels of carbon monoxide in their blood, and often have a higher-than-normal pulse rate and elevated blood pressure when compared to non-smokers.

If you or a loved one smokes, remember, it is never too late to quit. The health benefits of living smoke-free can dramatically reduce the risk of disease for a person of any age. People who quit smoking experience immediate benefits, such as improved circulation, increased breathing capacity and more energy. They also enjoy long-term benefits. After 10 to 15 years of not smoking, a former smoker's risk of premature death approaches that of a person who has never smoked. Many treatments and programs are available to help people stop smoking. Contact your local American Cancer Society, American Lung Association, or health department about smoking-cessation classes. Call 1-800-ACS-2345 for more information.

Another practical "don't": Don't procrastinate in getting regular health checkups. I am amazed how people will religiously take in their cars for an oil change or tune-up, according to the guidelines in their auto manual, but ignore proven, recommended health guidelines about getting medical checkups. The wise adage "Nip it in the bud" is especially appropriate when it comes to health care issues. As with any problem, if you can detect a medical concern early on, the likelihood of a good resolution is much greater than if the disease is allowed to fester, grow and wreak havoc. Many innovative treatment options for HIV, cancer and other diseases have garnered their best success rates in cases where there was early detection and intervention.

African-Americans continue to suffer high rates of kidney disease, diabetes, cancer, HIV, asthma, heart disease, stroke and hypertension. In many communities, attaining affordable, accessible health care remains an ongoing challenge. Nevertheless, there are things we can do to overcome such barriers. By incorporating effective medical "do's and don'ts," We can strongly influence our personal health status, help reduce disparities in the larger community and create a firm frontline of resistance to disease.

Sandra L. Gadson, M.D.

President, National

Medical Association

COPYRIGHT 2006 Johnson Publishing Co.
COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning