Injury prevention is the effort one makes to prevent an injury or reduce its severity. There are many ways to do things that are meant to prevent or at least reduce the effects of an accident. Seat belts in a car or the protective clothing we wear when participating in sports are meant to prevent or limit injuries. Another way to prevent injuries is to keep an exercise routine that stretches and strengthens muscles. Chronic diseases, like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer are some of the most common health problems in the U.S. Many of these diseases are preventable because they are linked to poor lifestyle choices like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and physical inactivity. Chronic diseases are the main cause of death (70% of annual deaths) and disability. These diseases diminish the quality of life and add to rising health care costs. You have the control to inhibit most chronic diseases; eating right, cutting back on drinking alcohol, getting exercise, and not smoking can have a prevailing impact on preventing diseases. Preventing chronic diseases not only makes your life better, but it will also save you money over time as you make fewer visits to see doctors and pay for fewer medications.