From the desk of Bronya (Ms B)

TAMING THE BIG THREE
(These three major health conditions can run in families - but they can also be delayed or prevented with a healthy lifestyle and screenings.)

CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

Facts : The leading cause of death and disability, claiming some 17 million lives a year, which is almost one-third of all deaths globally. About half of the world's cardiovascular burden occurs in the Asia Pacific region.

Genetics : Cardiovascular disease can have a genetic basis, but habits such as poor diet, low levels of exercise and smoking usually contribute to the onset of the disease.

Prevention : Eat healthily, exercise, control blood pressure, manage weight, check cholesterol, and don't smoke. If you or a family member has suffered a stroke or heart attack before age 60, or tested hight for cholesterol levels, see your doctor about assessing risks.

TYPE 2 DIABETES

Facts : Asia has the biggest diabetes burden in the world. More than 83 million people in Asia Pacific live with type 2 diabetes, and perhaps more have it but don't yet realise.

Genetics : If one parent has it, there is a 10% chance you will develop it in middle age. That increases to 20% if both parents have it. Other risk factors include further family history of the condition, being overweight, low levels of activity, high blood pressure, poor diet, smoking and high cholesterol.

Prevention : People at risk can delay and even prevent type 2 diabetes by following a healthy lifstyle that includes regular exercise, healthy eating and weight control. If it runs in the family, talk to your doctor.

CANCER

Facts : More than 10 million people worlwide are diagnosed with cancer each year. And an alarming 7.1 million new cases of cancer in Asia are projected by 2020.

Genetics : A genetic predisposition to cancer is actually a mutation in the normal "cancer protection" genes. Only about 5% of bowel, breast and ovarian cancers are believed to involve an inherited faulty gene.

Prevention : At least one in three cancer cases are preventable. Smoking remains the most important avoidable risk. Other preventable causes include poor diet, inadequate exercise and obesity. For those with a family history of breast, ovarian or bowel cancer, see your doctor for regular screening.