Read the following passage carefully and answer the question on it.
The dramatic increase in life expectancy globally towards the end of the twentieth century has renewed interest among scientists and laymen alike in the subject of longevity and he ageing process. This lengthening of life has been one of the greatest achievements of humanity. It was in recognition of this fact that the United Nations formally designated 1999 as the “International Year of Older Persons”. Demographers tell a surprising story: octogenarians and older people, instead of the young, now form the fastest growing population group on earth.
What then are the factors that determine man’s health and the length of his life? Recent studies have identified so„ of these. It is known that the sounder your habits the longer your life may last. Nutritionists have told us that we W what we eat, that is to say, that what we eat influences the state of our health. Instead of over-eating, one should e,e a balanced diet including fruit and plenty of vegetables. Moderate physical exercise on a regular basis is of immense benefit. The family doctor should be consulted on how much exercise and what type are most appropriate for each individual. studies have shown that simple exercises in and around the home help the elderly to regain strength and vitality.
The adage “use it or lose it” applies not only to the muscles but also to the mind. Mental exercise keeps the brains “telephone lines” alive whereas mental decline or serenity starts the moment a person retires and decides to take things easy in the erroneous belief that doesn’t have to keep up with the world any more. Many retired civil servants fall into this bad habit. They can change this unhealthy habit by being actively engaged in reading, travel, education, clubs, professional associations. It is believed that such activities not only lift the spirit but also “rewire”the brain.
In addition to these is the environment. In many developing countries the environment poses grave dangers to health, often resulting in preventable deaths. Access to clean safe water is severely limited. There are huge mountains of refuse breeding vermin, cockroaches and disease causing germs in both rural and urban areas. All this contribute, to the low life expectancy in these countries. Better sanitation, safer water for all and a reduction of vermin in the home will improve man’s environment bolster his health and extend his life-span.
The next factor is the state of medical care available in our countries. In the developed countries, advances in medical science have dramatically improved health and delivery. Unfortunately, the reverse has been the case in the poor countries of Africa and Asia. For example, in the USA, only one woman in 12,500 dies from pregnancy-related causes whereas one in 21 dies in Africa from the same causes! That speaks volumes about the deplorable state medical services.
Finally, man has made a breakthrough in controlling his genetic make-up. A decade or so ago, he had no control whatsoever over his genetic engineering. Now, he can re-design his genetic constitution to ensure better health and longer life.
(a) In six sentences, one for each, state the factors that improve man’s health and life-span.
Explanation
(i) Man must eat good food.
(ii) Man must engage in regular exercise.
(iii) He should also engage in mental exercise.
(iv) He must maintain good and healthy environment.
(v) Man must care for himself medically.
(vi) Man has the ability to re-design his genetic make-up.