National Health Goals

Introduction

Cancer

• Cancer is a group of more than 100 different diseases.
• Cancer is not only a leading killer but a cause of much suffering.
• Many factors are associated with increased risk of cancer; unhealthy lifestyles are among them.
• Many forms of cancer can now be effectively treated.
• Medical consultation is essential when considering hormone replacement therapy.
• Recognizing early warning signals can help reduce the risk of cancer.

Diabetes

• Several classifications of diabetes cause health risk to many individuals.
• Diabetes and related conditions are a leading cause of death in our society.
• Diabetes is associated with other health problems.
• Lifestyle changes can help reduce the symptoms and complications typically associated with diabetes.
• Screening for pre-diabetes and diabetes is essential to diagnosis and treatment.
• Once diabetes is recognized, adherence to a treatment program is essential to prevent related conditions.

Other Health Threats

• Injuries are a major cause of death and suffering.
• Prompt emergency medical care is critical for saving lives.
• Changes in lifestyles can reduce injury rates.
• Improved occupational safety could help reduce injury rates.
• Many mental disorders pose threats to health and wellness.
• Mental disorders result in loss of life, injury, and inability to function, and they cost the public millions of dollars annually.
• Reducing the incidence of suicide and serious injury from suicide attempts is an important national health goal.
• Depression, a common mental disorder, can usually be treated effectively.
• Sleep disorders can often be helped by lifestyle changes.
• Various health threats put the public's health at risk.

Strategies for Action

• Self-assessments and regular medical exams can help you determine if you need help with various health problems.
• Staying current with new health information can help you identify and get treatment for health problems.
• Adhering to sound medical advice is important to disease prevention and treatment.

Web Resources

Suggested Readings