Cure Magazine, http://www.curetoday.com/, asked a question in a reader poll.That question was: “Did you improve your lifestyle after you or a loved one’s diagnosis with cancer?”
Of the 315 people who responded, 82% said ‘Yes’ and 18% said ‘No’.
Resolutions at this time of the year are often made to be proactive. The best intentions are to start the New Year with a better diet, a better exercise program, a better time management regime, a better life.
From the Cure poll it appears that 259 people used their cancer experience to propel themselves, their loved one or family into an improved lifestyle. The remaining 56 people in the study who answered the poll with a ‘No’, I wonder what was their reasoning? Some I have to assume were terminal and chose to stay on their own course. Human nature is optimistic. We all think we will be the one in a thousand to beat the odds, to win. To hedge our bets, just in case we aren’t so lucky, many of us set resolutions to improve our lifestyle.
Nobody needs a cancer diagnosis to improve their lifestyle, or to make resolutions for the better. The New Year is a time to start fresh. Everyone knows we should eat and drink in moderation, and exercise daily. I suggest a few other resolutions to the list. We all should get physical check-ups and dental check-ups. If you don’t have insurance, or have a high deductable, I suggest you pay for it out of your own pocket. What can you cut from your expenses so you can pay to have a thorough check-up with blood work and a dental exam with x-rays? What would it mean to your resolutions if you start with a clean bill of health? What would it mean to your resolutions if you knew specifics, like your cholesterol level, glucose, or blood pressure? Are you feeling lucky or do you know you are?
4 comments:
I too am baffled by the 18% that said no... Perhaps they feel overwhelmed? I do think it is important to set realistic goals for the New Year. If you don't exercise at all right now, try adding a walk to your daily routine. Start even with 10 minutes or around the block. If you find it boring get a cheap MP3 player and listen to your favorite music or download a few podcasts on topics that interest you.
Good suggestions.
Gym memberships sky rocket in January. If you take a trip to Costco, they are packed with supplements and vitamins on display this time of year to help people achieve their health goals.
I think it is all great, but still suggest taking that money and get a blood work-up and physical exam.
With the health care reform some tests will be free in February or already are. Who needs (because no one wants) a colonoscopy?
2011 is a health resolution for my family and I as well. I just read an article today about the best time to work out which is in the mornings before breakfast. I agree it's important to get a regular check up and stay on top of our health, but most of my money this year will be at my local health store for some natural/herbal supplements, vitamins and body cleanses to get rid of those body toxins we put into our bodies in 2010 - most of them probably came from all the eating during the holidays :)
I like this post -- my mom is a breast cancer survivor and will undergo major back surgery tomorrow! I hope that she can make this a year of health. I wrote my 2011 bucket list today, and doing a girls trip with her is at the top of the list. here is to health and happiness in 2011. Rachel
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