Lifestyle disease

Diseases of affluence
Burden of diet-related diseases
Illnesses of excess

Nature

Human activities strongly influence a population's states of health and disease. For example, an energy-rich food supply combined with a plethora of energy saving devices, from cars to TV lounges, appears to be responsible for much of the increase in obesity which affluent societies have experienced in the past half century.

Background

The global significance of lifestyle diseases emerged in the late 20th century, as epidemiological studies linked rising rates of conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers to shifts in diet, physical inactivity, and urbanization. Recognition intensified with the World Health Organization’s 2002 report highlighting noncommunicable diseases as a leading cause of death worldwide, prompting international initiatives and research into the socioeconomic and cultural drivers behind this escalating health crisis.

Incidence

According to the World Health Organization 70 to 80% of all deaths in the industrialized world and 40 to 50% in developing countries are so-called "affluent society" diseases, attributable to high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke or lung cancer. These diseases are caused by unhealthy diet, lack of exercise and smoking.

At least 600 million urban dwellers in the developing world live in what might be termed "life and health threatening" homes and neighbourhoods, and have inadequate or no access to health care. Infant mortality rates can be as much as five times higher in low income settlements than in the more prosperous middle class areas in the same city. They have the "worst of both worlds" with the traditional infection diseases plus affluent society diseases.

The World Health Organization in 1997 reported the increased incidence in developing countries of diseases usually associated with the industrialized nations: heart disease, stroke, and cancer.In 1900, 5% of the US population died of heart disease, cancer, or diabetes. In the early-mid 1900s, heart disease and cancer were not in the top 20 causes of death in any age group.

Claim

Lifestyle diseases are a critical and urgent problem threatening our society. Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity are skyrocketing due to unhealthy habits, poor diets, and lack of exercise. These diseases not only shorten lives but also drain healthcare resources and reduce quality of life. Ignoring this crisis is irresponsible—immediate action and awareness are essential to prevent a future where preventable illnesses dominate our lives and burden our communities.

Counter-claim

The concern over lifestyle diseases is vastly exaggerated. People have always faced health challenges, and blaming modern habits ignores advances in medicine and quality of life. Focusing on so-called “lifestyle diseases” distracts from more pressing global issues like poverty and infectious diseases. Personal choices should not be overregulated or sensationalized. Ultimately, the panic around lifestyle diseases is unwarranted and diverts attention from truly critical health concerns.