leading US doctor says he won't partake of medical services (for himself) after age 75

[mnhtnbb]

61. I don't do routine breast or colon cancer

screenings. I don't do flu shots. I've had high cholesterol for 30 some years and refuse to take statins.

I do use routine asthma medication and take a pill for high blood pressure. I have been vaxxed and boosted for COVID and still wear a mask indoors and avoid crowds. I go to the dentist and eye doc routinely. I will have cataracts removed if necessary or treat glaucoma.

I'll be 72 in March. I've told my doc I will not go through cancer treatment. I live alone. If I get some debilitating disease I'm not going to struggle with it. I'd rather leave an inheritance for my sons than to blow resources prolonging my life, especially if it involves considerable pain or decline in quality of life.

I've had a good life. Bodies age and wear out. Some sooner than others. I have two hip replacements and a knee replacement. I'm not anxious to do more joint replacement surgery, but my first hip replacement was 16 years ago and it's possible it could have to be redone. Ugh. When you replace a hip that's already been replaced, it has to be done the old way from the posterior, which means three months of restrictions to avoid dislocation. Not fun, especially living alone . I have zero desire to move to assisted living.

So, we'll see how it goes. But I won't pursue medical care for everything that could go wrong with me as I continue to age.