Re:Reopening the health care debate, March 6

Never ask the military for advice on whether to attack a country, because they will just say yes and just ask for more money.

I feel the same way about doctors.

Our health care costs are going up because we are eating too much, exercising too little and using too many toxic chemicals in our day-to-day living.

Some 50 per cent of all cancers can be prevented through healthy living and avoiding toxic chemicals (Canadian Cancer Society).

Over 75 per cent of all heart disease can be prevented through not smoking, proper diet and regular exercise (many sources).

Some 92 per cent of the diabetes could be avoided by diet and lifestyle (Harvard School of Public Health).

Yet doctors tell us we should focus on building more hospitals and hire more doctors.

If the government can encourage people to lead healthier lives, we will soon see the required reductions in our health care costs.

Michael D. Smith, Oakville