What Is Preventative Health? How & Why It Saves Lives

Preventative health (or preventive health) is the practice of taking proactive measures to avoid illness or injury before they occur. While the concept of prevention is not new, the importance of preventive health has never been more crucial. In this article, we will explore why preventative health is so important and how individuals can take steps to prioritize it for themselves. 

Preventative Health Saves Lives 

Preventative health is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, which are among the leading causes of death in the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 80% of all heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes cases could be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle. By practicing preventative health measures, individuals can lower their risk of these and other diseases and increase their lifespan. 

Preventative Health is Cost-Effective 

Taking preventive health measures is also cost-effective. In the United States, chronic diseases account for 75% of the nation’s healthcare spending, with the bulk of it going towards treating preventable illnesses. By prioritizing preventive health, individuals can avoid costly medical bills, reduce the burden on healthcare systems, and lower overall healthcare costs. 

Preventative Health Improves Quality of Life 

In addition to saving lives and reducing healthcare costs, preventative health can also improve an individual’s quality of life. Preventive health measures such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management can boost energy levels, improve mental health, and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases. Furthermore, individuals who make their preventive health a priority are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors, leading to a cycle of improved health outcomes. 

Prioritizing Preventative Health 

How can individuals prioritize their preventive health? There are several steps that can be taken to make it a priority: 

• Exercise regularly: Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve physical and mental health, and increase lifespan. 
• Eat a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. 
• Manage stress: Chronic stress can have a negative impact on mental and physical health. Practicing stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can help to reduce stress levels and improve overall health. 
• Get regular check-ups: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help to identify potential health issues before they become serious, allowing for early intervention and treatment. Platforms such as Vosita make it easier to manage your health by ensuring you get reminded of yearly appointments.  

• Take advantage of preventive health services: Many healthcare providers offer preventive health services such as screenings, vaccinations, and counseling. Taking advantage of these services can help to prevent illnesses and improve overall health outcomes. 

Prioritizing preventative health is one of the most effective ways to avoid illness, reduce healthcare costs, and improve quality of life. By adopting a preventive lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, stress management, and regular check-ups, individuals can take control of their health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. As the importance of preventive health continues to grow, it is important that individuals and healthcare providers work together to promote preventive health and ensure that everyone has access to the tools and resources they need to prioritize their health and improve their quality of life.