Health consequences of selected lifestyle factors: a review of the evidence, part 2.

Generalized resistance to disease and reduced tendency to depression have been related to the extent of social relationships, with a greater association for females than males. Cigaret smoking is the largest cause of preventable death: smokers' mortality rates are almost double those for non-smokers. Coronary heart disease and lung cancer are the main causes of death. Morbidity is also higher among smokers, who are more prone to bronchitis, emphysema, sinusitis, peptic ulcers, and influenza. Abuse of drugs, both prescribed and unprescribed, is linked directly to drug dependency and death, often suicide. Misuse of prescribed drugs is a major concern in the elderly. High caffeine consumption has been related to chronic insomnia, persistent anxiety and depression, and stomach upset. Use of properly adjusted seatbelts halves the number of deaths and the severity of injury in motor vehicle accidents. Type A personality behaviors are associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease. "Insight" requires further study to assess its affect on health and wellbeing. Quality of working life is an important determinant of an individual's identity and health status: frequency of symptoms increase as job strain increases.