Living Longer, Living better: The Big Four
- Ben Stride
- Jul 31, 2023
- 3 min read
Understanding the Leading Causes of Death in the Western World to make better health decisions for longevity
Dr Ben Stride
TL;DR: Embrace the Inevitable - Discover the leading causes of death in the Western world: cardiovascular disease, cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic disease (predominantly diabetes). Take proactive steps to live longer, healthier lives through lifestyle adjustments and disease prevention. Join us for upcoming posts exploring ways to protect our well-being and make informed health choices. #HealthAwareness #DiseasePrevention #LivingBetter
Introduction:
As a healthcare professional, it is my duty to emphasise that death is an inescapable reality of life. We all have to face it at some point. However, what we can control is how we live our lives, aiming to lead healthier and more fulfilling days while reducing the impact of certain conditions that contribute significantly to mortality in the Western world. I firmly believe that acknowledging the inevitability of mortality empowers us to lead fulfilling lives while being proactive about our well-being.
This article is the first in a series of posts that looks to investigate the causes of mortality and indeed morbidity and looks to understand how and where we can increase our longevity and improve our quality of life for as long as possible.
The Big Four
I want to shed light on the four most common broad causes of death in the non-smoking population. I call these the big four and include cardiovascular disease, cancer, neurodegenerative disorders like dementia, and metabolic disease. It's essential to understand that this list excludes accidental deaths and suicides, which are separate categories requiring distinct attention.
Cardiovascular Disease: Our Heart's Greatest Challenge
Cardiovascular disease tops the list as the leading cause of death in the Western world. This is a broad category including heart disease and strokes, both of which can be devastating and both of which are essentially caused by atherosclerotic disease. This is the mechanism by which blood vessels become diseased due to cholesterol deposition and subsequent narrowing of blood vessels. Sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary choices, and stress play a significant role in fostering cardiovascular conditions. By promoting regular exercise, adopting a heart-healthy diet, and managing stress effectively, we can reduce our risk of falling victim to these ailments.
Cancer: A Fight We Must Brave Together
Cancer is another formidable adversary that affects millions of lives. While there are numerous types of cancer, early detection and regular screenings can significantly improve survival rates. Adopting a lifestyle that incorporates a balanced diet, physical activity, and avoiding harmful substances can serve as a powerful preventive measure.
Neurodegenerative Disorders: Facing the Challenge of Dementia
Neurodegenerative disorders, such as dementia, are conditions that impact the brain's function and memory over time. The aging population is particularly vulnerable to these challenges. Engaging in activities that stimulate the mind, such as puzzles, reading, and social interactions, may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Metabolic Disease, Predominantly Diabetes: Empowering Healthier Lifestyles
Metabolic diseases, especially diabetes, are on the rise in the Western world due to poor dietary choices and sedentary habits. By making conscious efforts to maintain a healthy weight, adopting a balanced diet, and engaging in regular exercise, we can better manage and even prevent diabetes. Metabolic diseases encompass a spectrum of conditions, ranging from hyperinsulinemia to insulin resistance, fatty liver disease, and ultimately, type 2 diabetes. These interconnected disorders arise primarily due to poor dietary choices and sedentary habits. However, through conscious efforts to maintain a healthy weight, adopting a balanced diet, and engaging in regular exercise, we can better manage and even prevent these metabolic challenges.
A final thought
It is worth mentioning that in a smoking population, respiratory disease also becomes a significant contributor to mortality. Smoking cessation programs and raising awareness about the risks associated with tobacco use are crucial in addressing chronic respiratory disorders.
Understanding the Importance of Prevention:
While we can't evade mortality, we can take proactive steps to live longer and enjoy a higher quality of life. Prevention is the key. By acknowledging the leading causes of death in the Western world, we can work towards mitigating their effects through healthier choices and lifestyle adjustments.
Conclusion
The biggest causes of death in the Western world are formidable, but they are not insurmountable. By acknowledging the risks, making informed choices, and seeking medical guidance, we can empower ourselves to lead healthier, happier lives. Remember, it's not just about living longer; it's about living better.
Join me in the upcoming posts as we delve deeper into these leading causes of death and explore proactive measures to protect our health and well-being. Together, we can make informed choices and embrace life with vitality and purpose.
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