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Life Expectancy
"What’s the average amount of time you are going to live?" That’s something called life expectancy, and it’s a number that scientists figure based on all kinds of complicated methods that would bore you to tears if we explained it. But take a look at what the chart looks like:
| LIFE EXPECTANCY (in years) |
 |
|
White Female |
78.0 |
| African-American Female |
76.1 |
| White Male |
75.3 |
| Black Male |
69.0 |
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| Data taken from US Life Tables, 2003, National Vital Statistics Reports Vol. 54 N. 14 |
The numbers speak for themselves. There is a tremendous gap between African-American men and everyone else. Too many of us are dying too young and we don’t have to. There are many reasons for the gap, but the major reason is our higher rate of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. We can begin to close the gap and improve not just the length of our lives but the quality of them as well. It’s up to us to start making the changes through better food choices, more exercise, and getting the necessary screening tests such as breast mammograms for women and prostate exams for men. Remember, part of THE CHALLENGE is your commitment to bettering not just yourself, but the entire community.
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