Our overall aim is to make our local community as healthy as possible. We believe that this will be achieved in the long term through preventative medicine. We encourage all our patients to share responsibility for their health. Many of the most serious illnesses can be prevented by a healthy lifestyle. This consists of developing good habits and sticking to them.
Smoking
This is the single largest preventable cause of ill health in this country. It is a major cause of cancer, heart attacks, angina and lung disease. Our health visitor provides individual consultations to support and encourage people to stop smoking. Please ask reception, your doctor or nurse about how to book an appointment.
Weight control and diet
Obesity harms your health, so try to avoid it. Maintain a sensible diet (various diet sheets are available on request).
Alcohol
This should be drunk only in moderation. Women should drink less than 21 units per week, while men should drink less than 28 units per week (1 unit = 1 glass of wine or half pint beer). If you drink more than this and need help to reduce your alcohol intake consult your doctor.
Exercise
Regular exercise is essential for good health. Even gentle exercise, such as walking, is very beneficial. Previous illness is not a bar to exercise – your doctor or nurse can advise you regarding this.
Stress
We live in an increasingly stressful society and increased stress can often lead to physical illness. If you are tense and worried remember a problem shared is a problem halved.