High blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and abnormally high blood sugar are problems that I see on a regular basis. And yet, many people refuse to go to their doctor or take medication that could help prevent long-term disability and/or premature death.

It's difficult to face the fact that something is wrong physically. It may carry implications of waning youth or weakness. It's imperative that we become active partners with our doctors in health care. Ask questions, educate yourself and cooperate with your doctor in your own care.

Be aware that sometimes doctors haven't kept up-to-date with new developments in health care. For example, doctors are being urged by experts to be more aggressive in treating high blood pressure. Yet, some are still complacent when dealing with patients whose blood pressure is clearly above the optimal range. I wish I had a dollar for every time I've heard someone with high blood pressure say "Oh, my doctor says that's just normal for me." I tell them that it may be USUAL for them, but it's certainly not normal, nor is it optimal.

Education can't hurt you, but ignorance certainly can. There are many good sources of information out there that will enable you to become an effective partner in your own care.