Smoking Causes Lung Cancer

by Janet Shapan ::

The problem with breaking bad health habits is they are often behaviors that feel good, look good or taste good but these momentary pleasures can carry a high price when it comes to good health.

Some readers over time come to terms with bad habits and quit while others hope that by just cutting back, they can extend the pleasure a bit longer. If you have quit any of the habits listed in this article, then you deserve praise and encouragement but if you still indulge, then follow some of the recommended advice of health experts.

Risk #1: The Sun

By the time a person that has been a sun worshipper over the years reaches senior status, the groundwork for skin damage and potential skin diseases has already been laid.
Continued over exposure to the sun is an invitation to skin cancer, skin that has an unhealthy appearance, more freckles than you want and dreaded aging wrinkles. The big culprits that drive these problems are too much sun without sunscreen and the use of popular tanning salons over time.

Get an appointment with a good dermatologist and have a thorough check up. Get into the habit of daily application of a high quality (SPV 30 or higher) sunscreen. Leading dermatologists also suggest a topical anti-oxidant to contend with sun rays that pass through the sunscreen. Finally try to schedule important outdoor activities during off peak hours.

Risk #2: Addiction to Fast Food:

No doubt there are fast food stops that offer reasonably good food that contributes to good health. But for those seniors whose idea of good food is stuff delivered from a vending machine, on a plate in the office kitchen or common junk food stops, then it is time for a change and no more excuses.

Beyond being over weight, everyone should confirm with a doctor whether you are also facing high cholesterol and/or blood pressure and establish a plan for change. The immediate steps are not difficult. For example, identify fruits and vegetables you like and are portable that can be a junk food replacement when a snack attack begins. Pay attention and you may find yourself eating snacks at the same time almost everyday. If you can’t break the habit, then find a better snack to replace the snack you frequently eat.

Dealing with the snack habit is one side of the health equation. Look for ways to increase the number of calories you burn. If you can take a walk at lunch for 10 minutes, take the stairs to the office or walk to lunch or a meeting instead of driving you will be making positive progress.

Risk #3: Still Smoking

For many seniors, killing the smoking habit is a formidable mountain to climb but more and more are taking the challenge. The dangers of smoking to health is unquestionable and now days the costs are a real burden to the family budget.

First, commit to quit. There are support groups, products that support withdrawal and other tools for the process. Once you have removed the tobacco from your life, meet with your doctor and get a thorough check up to assess possible lung damage and look for early signs of cancer. The act of quitting alone will add 6-8 years to your life.

Risk #4 Too Much Alcohol

The fun associated with alcohol likely started in high school or college and many have not encountered problems drinking moderate levels of alcohol over the years. But if you are one of those whose daily activities are supported by 4 or more alcohol drinks, you may be in the danger zone. These consumption levels dramatically increase your chances for alcohol related diseases and disorders.

Find alternatives for social interaction. Enroll in community groups, sports or education. Try reducing stress with yoga, meditation, reading or a new hobby. Be aware of your habit every day.

The habits outlined here are only a few of biggies that impact elderly people everyday. Other daily challenges include escalating dental care costs due to poor dental hygiene and increasing social diseases due to unprotected sexual encounters.

For health’s sake, face these habits squarely today and take action.
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About the Author

JANET SHAPAN
Janet Shapan, has been a publisher, writer and media designer in the special interest magazine business for over 25 years. A Boomer, her passion is identifying current innovations in health, wellness and other lifestyle categories and translating it to other like-minded individuals. For more information on Senior Living, visit: http://for-seniors.org