The Age of “Lifestyle” Diseases
1997 - Domestic Event
Over the course of the 20th century, medical
science found cures and vaccines for many of the world’s most deadly infectious
diseases. Gradually, those diseases became less common or less fatal,
especially in the United States, where hygiene and public health education also
improved. One major killer, smallpox, completely disappeared. At the same time,
medical conditions that are often due to unhealthy lifestyles became more
prevalent.
A look at the leading causes of death at the end of the century shows the
result: heart disease and cancer had far surpassed infectious diseases. The
majority of health care dollars today are spent on treating cancer, heart
disease and diabetes, which can be prevented in many cases by healthier diet,
behaviors and medical treatment. The same is true for other illnesses on the
list, including stroke, chronic lung disease and HIV.
Of course, we expect future advances in genetics,
pharmacology and medical treatment to improve survival rates of these diseases.
But doctors already know of several preventive measures that can help lower
your chances of developing them. Quitting smoking (or never starting),
exercising, eating a healthy diet and practicing safe sex are all lifestyle approaches
to better health.
Information provided by BCBSNC.
Cancer cells in bone marrow. As early as 1971, the rising incidence of cancer led President Nixon to declare “war” on the disease. Photo courtsey of the Cancer Media Center.
The 10 leading causes of death in 1997 as a percentage of all U.S. deaths.
Healthy Lifestyle Resources from BCNSNC
The more medical science has learned about such diseases as cancer and heart disease, the more important prevention has become. In fact, it’s become a revolution in health care. In North Carolina, Blue Cross and Blue Shield was at the forefront of that revolution, expanding the traditional role of health insurer by helping members lead healthier lives. Today they offer preventive programs, educational resources and discounts that promote healthy diet and exercise.
One alarming recent trend in American health is obesity. During the early 2000s, the obesity epidemic overtook more than 25 percent of the population of North Carolina. Even more disturbing is the increase in obese children. In just two decades, the percentage of overweight American children ages six to eleven has doubled—and tripled for teenagers. Without a change in diet or exercise patterns, childhood obesity can lead to life-threatening conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and cancer.
BCBSNC was the first insurer in the nation to offer coverage for doctor visits concerning weight problems. More recently, visits to a nutritionist were added to the list of covered expenses. “Healthy Lifestyle ChoicesSM, another member benefit, provides a wealth of health education tools. And to help prevent childhood obesity, BCBSNC launched Be Active Kids in 1999, an interactive nutrition and physical fitness program for preschoolers, which would become a signature program of the separate and independent BCBSNC Foundation.
Employees benefit from healthy lifestyle programs, too. Well ahead of today’s fitness emphasis, BCBSNC built a “Life Course” fitness trail on the campus of its Chapel Hill headquarters in 1977.
Information provided by BCBSNC.
The “Life Course” fitness trail around BCBSNC grounds reinforces the preventive strategy for the company’s employees.