[ZinGirl]

i'll get really picky here - the term 'afflicted' is more typically used when the physical condition is, more or less, unavoidable, such as 'afflicted with arthritis'.

let's face it....these aren't diseases which sneak up on a person. There is a direct known, and mostly avoidable, cause. To perceive it as otherwise, IMHO, removes a level of responsibility and perpetuates the problem.

[prisoner6]

i'll get really picky here - the term 'afflicted' is more typically used when the physical condition is, more or less, unavoidable, such as 'afflicted with arthritis'.

That's not picky, it's a VERY valid point! I work at a group of radio stations and write a lot of news. When other writers make mistakes like that it gets under my skin.

"Drowned to death" and "flags at half mast" instead of half staff" are especially irritating to me!

Not that my writings are perfect, LOL!

prisoner6