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Study: Optimists Live Longer

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Don't worry, be happy and optimistic.

According to a report from the University of Pittsburgh, optimists live longer.

Optimists were defined as those who said they expected good things rather than bad things to happen. Over the course of the study, optimists had a lower death rate in general and had a 30% lower death rate from heart disease.

In contrast, those who were more hostile had a higher death rate and a 23% greater risk of death from a cancer-related condition. If you think about it, our approach to life can make a big difference in how we handle stress and related conditions.

Reported By Dr. Brian McDonough, KYW Newsradio

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