How's your Lifestyle?: A Self-Test

Lifestyle questionnaires are useful to assess many of the variables that affect quality and quantity of life. It is estimated that as many as seven of the ten leading causes of death could be reduced through common-sense changes in lifestyle. That's what this brief test developed by the Public Health Service, is all about. Its purpose is simply to tell you how healthy your lifestyle is. The behaviors covered in the test are recommended for most Americans. Some of them may not apply to persons with certain chronic diseases or handicaps, or to pregnant women. Such persons may require special instructions from their physicians.

CIGARETTE SMOKING
If you never smoke, check this box and skip to the next section (Alcohol & Drugs).
1. I avoid smoking cigarettes.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
2. I smoke only low-filter and low-nicotine cigarettes, or I smoke a pipe or cigars.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
1. I avoid drinking alcoholic beverages, or I drink no more than one or two drinks a day.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
2. I avoid using alcohol or other drugs (especially illegal drugs) as a way of handling stressful situations or the problems in my life.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
3. I am careful not to drink alcohol when taking certain medications (for example, medicine for sleeping, pain, colds, allergies), or when pregnant.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
4. I read and follow the label directions when using prescribed and over-the-counter drugs.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
EATING HABITS
1. I eat a variety of foods each day, such as fruits and vegetables, whole-grain breads and cereals, lean meats, dairy products, dry peas and beans, and nuts and seeds.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
2. I limit the amount of fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol I eat (including fat on meats, eggs, butter, cream, shortening, and organ meats such as liver.)	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
3. I limit the amount of salt I eat by cooking with only small amounts, not adding salt at the table, and avoiding salty snacks.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
EXERCISE/FITNESS
1. I maintain a desired weight, avoiding overweight and underweight.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
2. I do vigorous exercise for 20-30 minutes at least three times a week (examples include running, swimming, brisk walking.)	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
3. I do exercises that enhance my muscle tone for 15-30 minutes at least three times a week (examples include yoga and calisthenics.)	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
4. I use part of my leisure time participating in individual, family, or team activities that increase my level of fitness (such as gardening, bowling, golf and baseball.)	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
SAFETY
1. I wear a seatbelt while riding in a car.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
2. I avoid driving while under the influence of alcohol and other drugs.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
3. I obey traffic rules and the speed limit when driving.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
4. I am careful when using potentially harmful products or substances (such as household cleaners, poisons, and electrical devices.)	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
5. I avoid smoking in bed.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
STRESS CONTROL
1. I have a job or do other work I enjoy.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
2. I find it easy to relax and express my feelings freely.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
3. I recognize early, and prepare for, events or situations likely to be stressful to me.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
4. I have close friends, relatives, or others whom I can talk about personal matters and call on for help when needed.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never
5. I participate in group activities (such as church and community organizations) or hobbies I enjoy.	Almost Always Sometimes Almost Never