Your health and the economic crisis Published March 20, 2009 By Lt. Col. Thomas E. Franklin Commander, 507th ARW Medical Squadron TINKER AIR FORCE BASE,Oklahoma -- An estimated 3.6 million Americans have lost jobs in the last year. The lost of jobs is often accompanied by a lost of health insurance. A great number of these families are in jeopardy of sinking even deeper into crisis due to an unexpected injury or illness. A great number of people are going without health care due to the current economic crisis. They are not getting recommended screening exams which predisposes them to serious and chronic disease. Also, there are an increased number of people presenting to their hospital's emergency department for care that was once delivered by their family physician, thus taking up time and space that is usually reserved for real emergencies. This is a direct result of a lack of health insurance. Prevention of disease and injury is always important. However, the loss of a job and insurance makes prevention a crucial ingredient in one's effort to stay afloat economically and emotionally. Many families are just one illness or injury away from financial catastrophe.Here are a few strategies that may lessen your chances of developing chronic disease or sustaining serious injury. * Maintain home safety- smoke detection devices, fire safety and evacuation, etc. * Avoid drinking and driving * Avoid high risk sporting activities. * Do not participate in road rage * Always use child safety seats * Always use safety/seatbelts * Stop smoking * Avoid illicit drug use * Get plenty of sleep and rest * Avoid the consumption of foods high in saturated fat and sugar * Get plenty of physical exercise Although, all of these injury and disease strategies have been conveyed to you and your family members time and time again, I don't think it hurts to re-enforce these concepts in this time of economic difficulty. Injury and disease prevention is a very cost efficient and sensible way to maintain good health. And now more than ever, these strategies can help you steer clear of a very costly health care system. Also, it remains wise and necessary to get recommended screening examinations. Pap/pelvic, breast, prostate and colonoscopy examinations should be done in a timely manner as recommended by you primary care physician or specialist. If you do not have a primary care physician, call your health department. Many of these screening exams are offered by your state or city health department. Additional health services are available at local community health clinics. Please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Website for detailed information regarding prevention.