Better Personal Habits Mean Lower Costs For Us All

Poor diet ➡️ Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity

Change: Reduce intake of processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats. Prioritize whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Known harm: Contributes to over 647,000 deaths annually from heart disease in the U.S.
Economic cost: Estimated at $50 billion annually in healthcare costs

Smoking ➡️ Lung cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disease

Change: Quit smoking entirely and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. Seek support through cessation programs or nicotine replacement therapies.
Known harm: Causes over 480,000 deaths annually, including secondhand smoke-related deaths.
Economic cost: Estimated at $600 billion annually, including healthcare spending and lost productivity.vity.

Sedentary lifestyle ➡️ Obesity, heart disease, diabetes

Change: Incorporate at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity (like brisk walking) into your week. Even small changes like standing instead of sitting can help.
Known harm: Linked to 11% of premature deaths globally.

Excessive alcohol consumption ➡️ Liver disease, multiple cancers

Change: Limit alcohol intake to recommended levels (e.g., up to one drink per day for women and two for men). Eliminate if possible to eliminate all risks from this known addictive, cancerous, depressant carcinogen.
Known harm: Responsible for approximately 178,000 deaths annually.
Economic cost: Estimated at $249 billion annually.

Excess sugar intake ➡️ Obesity, diabetes, dental diseases

Change: Cut back on sugary beverages, snacks, and desserts. Opt for water or unsweetened drinks and healthier snack options.
Known harm: Contributes to 34,000 deaths annually from diabetes and heart disease.
Economic cost: Estimated at $50 billion annually.

Poor mental health/stress management ➡️ Mental disorders, hypertension

Change: Practice stress-relief techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or exercise. Seek help from mental health professionals when needed.
Known harm: Linked to increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

Inadequate sleep ➡️ Obesity, diabetes, mental health disorders

Change: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a consistent sleep routine and limit screen time before bed.
Known harm: Associated with 7% increased mortality risk.
Economic cost: Estimated at $411 billion annually.

Excessive screen time ➡️ Mental health issues, poor physical health

Change: Set limits on recreational screen time and prioritize offline activities like reading, hobbies, or outdoor play.
Known harm: Linked to 27% increased risk of depression in teens.
Economic cost: Estimated at $151 billion annually.

Poor oral hygiene ➡️ Dental diseases, potential links to heart disease

Change: Brush and floss daily, and schedule regular dental check-ups. Reduce intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
Known harm: Contributes to $124 billion in annual healthcare costs.

Lack of regular health check-ups ➡️ Late detection of diseases

Change: Stay proactive by attending regular medical check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations based on your age and risk factors.
Known harm: Leads to delayed treatment and increased mortality rates.
Economic cost: Chronic diseases, often detected late, cost the U.S. $3.7 trillion annually, including lost productivity.