The Nation - News from July 3, 1986

Despite a decline in smoking and more public emphasis on health, a greater number of Americans admit to exercising less, gaining weight, sleeping less and drinking more than in the past, according to a new study by the National Center for Health Statistics. “In general, between 1977 and 1983 there appears to have been an increase in unfavorable health practices,” the report said. On the positive side, the agency found a 10% decline in the rate of smoking and a slight decrease in the rate of snacking.