Like many people, Santa was reluctant to undergo his physical this year, since he is nervous about visiting the doctor. However, he reconsidered at the urging of Mrs. Claus.
"I haven't focused on my health as much as I should. All of my attention is on the Holidays since they are a year round event for me. But Mrs. Claus helped me understand that I need to keep myself healthy so I can continue spreading Christmas cheer and bringing gifts to good girls and boys. It's what I love most," explains Santa.
According to Dr. Sadler, it is very common for men to neglect their health.
"I see it all the time in my practice. In fact, studies have shown that men are more likely to neglect their health than women and may go a few years without having any contact with a medical professional," she says. "But an annual physical can be lifesaving. Being familiar with your family medical history and health statistics like blood pressure and cholesterol levels is critical to preventing life-threatening conditions. When it comes to your health, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."
Santa is due for a six-month follow-up visit in June, but says he plans to make improvements in his health much sooner than that.
"The New Year is a perfect time to start over. My New Year's Resolution for 2009 is to cut back on sweets, exercise a little more and make my health a priority. Lots of little children are depending on me and I owe it to them to take care of myself," says Santa.
Upon leaving the hospital, the staff heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight, "a healthy Christmas to all and to all a goo
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