Personal Health Perceptions Vary Widely by Demographic Group Respondents over the age of 65, as well as those within high-income households, more frequently evaluate themselves as healthy.One out of 10 respondents over the age of 65 say they believe they are "extremely healthy," while only 4 percent of 35-49 year-olds say they believe they are. On average, 82 percent of respondents within high-income households ($125,000+) say they believe they are healthy compared to 71 percent of respondents who earn less.

"When patients have surgery, it is a vulnerable time for them, physically, emotionally and sometimes financially," said Peter Pronovost, M.D., Ph.D., ASA member and author of Safe Patients, Smart Hospitals. "Yet, some simple personal health measures, such as whether you smoke or have high blood pressure, strongly predict the level of risk for complications that you will have going through surgery. The American Society of Anesthesiologists' new program, Vital Health, helps patients assess and hopefully minimize these risks, ensuring that patients thrive when they have surgery."

An Opportunity to Improve Your Vital Health The ASA encourages Americans to take the first step toward improving their Vital Health by going to www.KnowYourVitalHealth and using the Know Your Vital Health Tool. After answering a series of health-related questions, patients will receive a customized, anonymous report of health and wellness information and suggestions.

Please visit www.LifelinetoModernMedicine for more information about the Vital Health Report and to use the Know Your Vital Health Tool. Source: American Society of Anesthesiologists