Higher intake of fruits and vegetables has been associated with reduced risk for some types of cancer, and may also have a protective effect against coronary heart disease that is independent of their role in replacing high-fat foods in the diet. This situation is exacerbated by the sedentary lifestyle of a growing percentage of the population. According to a 1996 report from the Surgeon General, physical activity along with lifestyle changes has been shown to reduce risk factors for heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer and high blood pressure. In New Jersey over half of adults surveyed in 1997 were overweight. Overweight and obesity have been shown to elevate blood pressure and cholesterol, and can also lead to Type 2 diabetes.
Violent behavior poses significant risks to health, particularly among young black males.
In New Jersey in 1996, black males were more than ten times as likely as white males to die as a result of homicide. Objectives concerning diet, physical activity, obesity, and homicide have been chosen for monitoring healthy behaviors for adults. Relevant objectives may also be found in the chapters on mental health and addictions. 2010 Objectives 1. See Technical Notes for detailed explanation.