AMA's top 10 health recommendations for 2025

Key recommendations for 2025

The AMA's 10 recommendations include steps to improve nutrition, physical activity, mental health and preventive care while addressing growing public health concerns like hypertension, diabetes and vaccine-preventable diseases.

1. Improve nutrition and reduce processed foods

The AMA encourages drinking more water and replacing processed foods with nutrient-dense options, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, low-fat dairy and lean proteins. For parents, involving children in meal preparation can encourage healthier eating habits, as research shows kids who help cook at home tend to consume healthier diets. Additionally, limiting sugary drinks, including 100% fruit juice, is crucial, as a study published in JAMA Network Open links these beverages to a higher risk of all-cause mortality.

2. Increase physical activity

Earlier this year, the Lancet Global Health published a study led by WHO researchers evaluating physical activity levels worldwide. It found that 31% of adults (1.8 billion adults globally) do not get sufficient physical activity. The AMA notes that adults are advised to aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity weekly. A JAMA study emphasized that even small changes, such as replacing sedentary time with walking, contribute to healthy aging.

3. Stay current on vaccinations

With respiratory virus season ongoing, the AMA highlights the importance of flu shots, updated COVID-19 vaccines, and RSV immunizations for vulnerable groups like older adults and infants. In addition to vaccines, preventive measures -- such as frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded or high-risk areas, improving indoor air quality and staying home when feeling unwell -- can significantly reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses. These steps are critical for protecting high-risk populations and preventing hospitalizations.

4. Schedule preventive screenings

Regular check-ups and preventive screenings help detect diseases like cancer, cardiovascular conditions and diabetes early, improving outcomes and lowering long-term costs.

5. Manage blood pressure

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for cardiovascular events. The AMA recommends validated home-monitoring devices and resources like ManageYourBP.org to help individuals track and control their blood pressure.

6. Assess type 2 diabetes risk

A simple self-screening test at DoIHavePrediabetes.org can help individuals identify prediabetes and take early steps to prevent type 2 diabetes, a condition linked to heart disease, kidney failure and vision loss.

7. Moderate alcohol consumption

The AMA aligns with U.S. guidelines, recommending no more than one drink per day for women and two for men. Excessive alcohol use exacerbates chronic health risks.

8. Address tobacco and e-cigarette use

Individuals are urged to quit smoking and vaping while also eliminating secondhand smoke exposure. Physicians are encouraged to provide resources to support tobacco cessation efforts.

9. Ensure safe medication use

The AMA advises patients to take prescription opioids and antibiotics exactly as directed, store medications safely and properly dispose of unused drugs to prevent misuse and resistance.

10. Manage mental health and stress

Mental health remains a priority for overall well-being. The AMA also recommends sufficient sleep (7.5+ hours per night), regular exercise and seeking professional mental health support when needed.

Health coverage and access

In addition to these recommendations, the AMA reminds Americans of the Dec. 18, 2024, deadline to enroll in 2025 health insurance coverage through Healthcare.gov.

Industry implications

For industry professionals, the AMA's recommendations highlight areas for innovation:

• Nutrition and fitness tools. Platforms offering personalized dietary plans, fitness tracking and behavior modification support are essential for addressing lifestyle-driven chronic diseases. These tools can empower individuals to make healthier choices through tailored guidance.
• Preventive health technologies. Innovations in telehealth, at-home screening tools and digital platforms are critical for promoting early disease detection and proactive health management. By providing accessible and efficient options, these technologies can improve outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
• Vaccine accessibility. Technologies that support public health campaigns and immunization tracking play a pivotal role in ensuring broader vaccine coverage. These tools help streamline communication, track progress and address gaps in immunization efforts.
• Mental health solutions. Digital platforms that integrate mental and physical health management offer a comprehensive approach to well-being. These solutions bridge the gap between physical and emotional health, providing resources for prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

The AMA's recommendations set a clear path for improving public health outcomes in 2025 by prioritizing proactive health measures and addressing key chronic diseases. For industry stakeholders, this guidance underscores opportunities to leverage technology, enhance preventive care and deliver patient-centered solutions.

Alivia Kaylor is a scientist and the senior site editor of Pharma Life Sciences.