Last year, the United States spent $2.7 trillion on personal health care, a majority of which was attributable to preventable chronic health diseases. These costs have been increasing for the past ten years. Such preventable chronic diseases include heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity, and cancer. In addition to age-appropriate screening, vaccinations, exercise, and avoiding tobacco/alcohol; a healthy diet can help avert and manage many of these conditions.
In an ongoing effort to educate women on their health, BAPS Charities presented a health awareness lecture on how to prevent chronic diseases through diet on February 18, 2018, in Robbinsville, NJ. Alka Sheth spoke to the audience on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and complications of these diseases. Attendees also learned how modification of their diet (such as removal processed/refined or high trans-fat food, reduction of sodium/cholesterol and the addition of more whole-foods) can decrease the risk of developing obesity, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Over 30 such lectures were presented across North America which helped participants understand the importance of diet modification to reduce the risk of preventable chronic diseases.
