A new study shows that following the seven simple lifestyle steps can lessen the risk of a person on developing serious illnesses like cancer, heart disease, and kidney disease.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), following the seven health tips can produce a healthier life away from deadly diseases.
The seven steps which are also called "Life's Simple 7" include:
1. Do not smoke
2. Maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI)
3. Be physically active
4. Consume a healthy diet
5. Maintain healthy cholesterol levels
6. Maintain healthy blood pressure
7. Maintain healthy blood glucose levels
In the said study, researchers examined and followed the health development of almost 7,000 adults within a 10-year period. The subjects were categorized into three groups depending on how each one of them followed the "Life's Simple 7". The groups are divided into poor, intermediate and ideal.
The results showed that those who belong to the ideal group have much healthier condition in terms of the risk in cardiovascular diseases compared to those who are in the poor group. The chance of having other diseases was also reduced for those in the ideal group.
In general, the result shows some health advantages to the ideal group. The benefits include:
- 20 percent lower risk of having cancer
- 62 percent lower risk of having chronic kidney disease
- 43 percent lower risk of having pneumonia
- 49 percent lower risk of having chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Lead researcher Dr. Khurram Nasir explained the result of the study on CBS News.
"As seen in our study it is a very important public health message that in addition to cardiovascular disease outcomes as shown in the past, we can also now lower the burden of key non cardiovascular outcomes and related outcomes by achieving these simple seven targets," stated by the Director of the Center for Healthcare Advancement & Outcomes at Baptist Health South Florida.
