Living a healthy life has always been important. However, due to the world we live in, with its sedentary lifestyle and fast food culture, it is becoming more and more difficult to stay healthy.

Two health concerns that heighten the possibility of premature death are obesity and smoking.

Obesity

Obesity is a medical condition characterized by excessive body fat that can significantly increase the risk of various health problems, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

According to the World Health Organization, worldwide obesity has nearly tripled since 1975. In 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults were overweight, and over 650 million of those were obese. In the United States, obesity was declared a national epidemic by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 1999.

Currently, more than one-third of adults in the United States are obese, and childhood obesity is also on the rise.

Causes of obesity

While there is no single cause of obesity, a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits are major contributors. People who consume more calories than they burn are likely to gain weight.

A diet high in sugar and saturated fats can lead to obesity, as well as lack of physical activity, emotional stress, and sleep deprivation.

Health risks associated with obesity

Obesity is a major risk factor for chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and cancer. It can also cause joint problems, sleep apnea, and breathing difficulties, and can lower life expectancy.

The risk of developing these health problems increases as the body mass index (BMI) increases.

Prevention and treatment of obesity

Prevention and treatment of obesity involve maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, and engaging in regular physical activity.

People who are overweight or obese should aim for a slow and steady weight loss of about 1 to 2 pounds per week and seek the help of a healthcare professional if necessary.

Smoking

Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide.

According to the World Health Organization, tobacco kills more than 8 million people each year, with more than 7 million deaths due to direct smoking and over 1 million deaths due to second-hand smoke exposure. In the United States, smoking is responsible for one out of every five deaths, which amounts to about 480,000 deaths per year. Smoking is also a major contributor to heart disease, cancer, and lung disease.

Health risks associated with smoking

Smoking increases the risk of various health problems, including cancer of the lungs, throat, mouth, pancreas, bladder, kidney, and cervix. It also increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and respiratory infections.

In pregnant women, smoking can cause complications such as premature birth, low birth weight, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Prevention and treatment of smoking

The best way to prevent smoking-related health problems is to not start smoking. If you already smoke, quitting smoking is the most important step you can take to reduce your risk of health problems.

There are various methods to help smokers quit, such as nicotine replacement therapy, medications, support groups, and counseling.

Conclusion

Obesity and smoking are two major health concerns that can significantly increase the risk of premature death. While there is no single cause for these health problems, unhealthy lifestyle choices are major contributors.

It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco use.