Study should be reminder to create healthy habits

People are often concerned about their health, whether it's worrying about staying in shape or worrying about fighting a disease. A recent study by the Saint Francis Healthcare System shows what the major concerns should be for residents of Cape Girardeau, Bollinger, Scott and Stoddard counties.

According to the study, the top areas that need attention when it comes to health care are obesity in children and adults, cancer, chronic disease management and the affordability of health care. Mental illness was also listed among top health issues.

Saint Francis' vice president of quality and patient safety Dr. Tom Diemer points to the region's general lifestyle choices as the root of some of its problems.

"In general, (with) the population we serve ... sedentary activity has increased, and outside activity has decreased," he told the Southeast Missourian.

For others, the cost of healthy food is a factor. "The cheaper foods are not necessarily the more healthy ones," Diemer said. "Eating healthy is expensive."

The results of this study, while not necessarily surprising, should make us evaluate our own routines. While we have little power to do anything about the problems associated with health-care affordability or genetic predisposition to diseases, we can try to lead the healthiest lifestyle possible in the hopes of staving off problems down the road. Parking a little farther away, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, drinking water instead of soda and other similar small steps all can lead to overall improved health.

Take a few moments to consider what you do to keep yourself healthy. Chances are, no matter your fitness level, there is room for improvement.