Final answer:
True, most chronic diseases can be attributed to lifestyle choices, with a significant proportion of chronic noninfectious diseases being preventable through healthy behaviors such as proper diet and regular exercise.
Step-by-step explanation:
Most chronic diseases and ill health can indeed be attributed to lifestyle choices. It is true that many deaths in high-income nations are linked to chronic noninfectious diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer, which are largely preventable through lifestyle modifications. Health outcomes are significantly influenced by factors such as diet, physical activity, and exposure to carcinogens like tobacco. For instance, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes can often be reduced with a healthy diet that favors proper sugar metabolism.
While there are certain factors like genetic predisposition that contribute to chronic diseases, most behavioral risk factors can be avoided or mitigated. An estimated 80 percent of cases of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes, as well as 40 percent of cancer cases, could be prevented through healthier lifestyle choices. This not only includes dietary changes but also opting for regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and reducing exposure to other harmful substances.