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America is certainly a healthy nation in terms of disease eradication and basic nutrition issues that plague developing countries. But in general its population is far from being in good health. Life expectancy is 42nd in the world, a shockingly low ranking considering the wealth and resources available to Americans.

The primary health risk in America is heart disease, the number one killer each year in the country. Heart attacks and strokes kill more people annually than all forms of cancer combined. This serious issue is caused mainly by the typical American diet, which is high in sodium and fats and low in fresh fish and vegetables.

The proliferation of fast food chains and processed food in the supermarkets has created one of the worst eating cultures ever known to humanity. While Americans certainly know how to cook and have easy access to fresh fruit, vegetables and meat, the majority of people have become accustomed to buying frozen premade meals they can microwave for dinner and grab lunch on the run from fast food outlets.

One of the biggest health problems facing new arrivals to America is adjusting to the diet that is all around them. Obesity is a major issue in the US, and while the government does provide a small amount to educate the public, it is difficult to reprogram such ingrained eating habits.

Cancer is also a growing problem for Americans, and lung cancer is the biggest killer of men and women every year. Now that smoking has finally been given the bad rep it deserves, these rates should continue to decrease in the future as many Americans have given up the habit. Most states have outlawed smoking in public places like restaurants, bars and shopping areas.

Most common health risks in America are completely avoidable simply by adjusting one’s lifestyle and diet. There are no contagious diseases to worry about because almost everyone gets vaccinated as an infant. Before a child can attend school in the US they must prove they have had basic vaccinations against polio, mumps, rubella and a host of other deadly diseases.

The one disease that is most commonly contracted in America by adults is hepatitis A and B. One can easily become infected by eating in restaurants with a contagious employee and other food-based exposure. While not deadly in most cases, hepatitis can cause long-term problems with liver and other internal organs. It is strongly suggested that everyone get shots for hepatitis A and B, a quick and easy procedure at any hospital or clinic.