Dear Editor,
Three weeks ago terrorists killed approximately 7000 people in attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. That same week, approximately 14,000 Americans died from heart disease, 10,000 Americans died from cancer, 8000 Americans died from diseases related to smoking, and 5500 Americans died from diseases related to poor diet and physical inactivity.
In response to the terrorist attacks, many people have stopped flying. In response to the other deaths, which occur EVERY WEEK and add up to hundreds of thousands of deaths each year, few have stopped smoking, changed their diet, or begun to exercise.
While you study at IVCC, we hope you learn to think critically and lead a healthy lifestyle. My intent with this letter is not to trivialize the events of September 11, but to put them in perspective. If you are worried about your health and safety, you should consider what truly poses a risk to you.
Mike Phillips
Geology instructor