“Our findings indicate people are living longer and, over the past decade, we identified substantial progress in driving down death rates from some of the world’s most pernicious diseases and conditions, such as under-age-5 mortality and malaria,” Dr. Christopher Murray, co-author of the report and director of the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington in Seattle, said in a statement. “Yet, despite this progress, we are facing a ‘triad of trouble’ holding back many nations and communities — obesity, conflict, and mental illness, including substance use disorders.”
Fortunately for those suffering from obesity, heart disease, substance abuse or diabetes, there are many steps one can take to increase they’re longevity.
Control your blood pressure.
African Americans are more likely than any other racial or ethnic group to have high blood pressure which can lead to heart attack and stroke. Find out what where your numbers should be and ask your doctor what those numbers mean for your health.
Eat a healthy diet.
Chow down on fruits and vegetables and cut back on the sodium. African Americans as well as adults aged 51-years and older and people with high blood pressure, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease should only consume 1,500 mg of sodium per day, experts say.
Get moving.
Staying active won’t just help you maintain a healthy weight. It will strengthen your heart. Aim for a 10-minute walk, 3 times a day, at least 5 days a week. That’s the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week.
Stop smoking.
One in 5 Black adults smoke cigarettes. Talk with your health care provider about ways to help you quit and stick with it.