ABSTRACT
During the twentieth century, the nature of the illnesses that beset the Americanpopulation underwent a transition from a predominance of infectious diseases to the present predominance of degenerative diseases. Today, we live longer only to fall prey to degenerative diseases such as cardiovascular disease (heart attacks and strokes), hypertension, and cancer. It is clear that the increase in degenerative diseases has been influenced by lifestyle choices. As a society:
1. We participate in work and leisure activities that are far less active than in the past.
