Apr

28

Midwesterners are dying earlier

April 28, 2008 | 3 Comments

The NY Times reports on an astounding new public health study that says life expectancy for some Americans is decreasing, especially women. No where else in the developed world is this happening, and researchers think it’s due to increasingly unhealthy lifestyles.

This rise in mortality for chronic diseases runs counter to trends in other developed countries, and the geographical differences are consistent with regional trends in smoking, high blood pressure and obesity.

Big pockets of rural Missouri and Kansas are among the counties with the worst declines in life expectancy. Both states have higher than average rates of smoking and obesity.

NY Times: Life Expectancy Is Declining in Some Parts of the Country.

Categories: General


Comments

3 Comments so far

  1. ChrisM70 on April 28, 2008 9:30 am

    It’s hardly surprising when corporations have been selling us how to do everything the “easy way” for years.

    No time for lunch? Swing through the drive through for a massive Thickburger and fries at Hardees – it’s easier!

    No time for dinner? Buy these frozen foods with plenty of chemical preservatives – it’s easier!

    Need entertainment now? Don’t go outside and play football – play Madden Football ‘08 – it’s easier!

    Consumer culture is based on easier, faster and simpler and the idea of keeping you on your ass watching TV, using the computer and playing video games while the government allows companies to sell us harmful amounts of JUNK FOOD.

    And now, all of that is making us a fat, unhealthy nation.

  2. Hippstar on April 29, 2008 7:17 am

    Seriously, if the government would just put the smack down on evil corporations, rednecks in the Ozarks would eat better and exercise more.

    Midwesterners are indeed fat, but I think it has more to do with cars, the layout of cities, and laziness. Try taking a walk, guys.

  3. ChrisM70 on April 29, 2008 8:22 am

    And who is responsible for the “car culture”?

    The auto makers. They are the ones who dismantled the rail system in Kansas City and helped create the urban sprawl that makes up so much of America.

    If government would ENCOURAGE walking, public transportation, healthy foods, better FDA regulations, etc. it would help IMMENSELY.

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