How Does Optimism Bias Affect Us in Healthcare?

The optimism bias means people are less likely to believe that bad events will happen to them.  They overestimate their likelihood of success.  What are some probable implications in healthcare?

• Don’t believe they will get cancer or some other disease and not act preventatively.
• Believe they can improve their cholesterol by exercise and that they will exercise.
• Don’t believe that the extra calories will add on pounds.
• Don’t believe smoking will kill them.
• Don’t believe they need insurance because they won’t get sick or hurt.

Is glass half-full or half-empty?