This is a tough one as sometimes I wonder if getting a condition under control -- such as high blood pressure -- with medication -- keeps us from addressing what we need to change to rid ourselves of high blood pressure. Should we exercise more? Should we eat healthier foods? Should we manage stress? I know several people who take high blood pressure medication and I am thankful they do. On the other hand, I think these type of medications kind of lure folks into a false sense of security in thinking that as long as we treat the symptoms of a condition, we no longer need to alter the lifestyles that may (or may not have) contribute to such conditions. Maybe we turn to drugs more quickly because they are available. While I think environment is part of the issue, I also think that culture may play a role as well. Sometimes I think that our culture is always looking for that magic bullet and in this case it comes in pill form.

Does anyone else think that turning to medication to control different chronic health conditions keeps people from making lifestyle changes to stay healthY?

Yes, my parents both take medication for their high cholesterol. Now, they eat even MORE red meat, butter, eggs, and other high-fat and high-cholesterol foods than before! They don't worry because "the medication is taking care of it" or they tell me that the doctor said their cholesterol levels look good! Yeah...they look good because of the medication, not by any doing of their own!

Ultimately, does the CAUSE of their "good" cholesterol levels matter if it is from healthy eating and exercise versus taking a pill?