Women use contraception regardless of their religious beliefs. This was the conclusion of a report based on a U.S. government survey of 7,000 women ages 15-44 which took place from 2006 to 2008. The survey found 69% of sexually active women were using effective birth control – the pill, IUD or sterilization. Breaking down the percentage by religions, 68% of Catholic women used contraception, with 2% relying on natural family planning; 73% of mainline Protestants; and 74% of Evangelicals, with 40% of them choosing sterilization. These results were unaffected by marital status. Like charity, it seems religion begins at home.
More men are having cosmetic surgery. According to a study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 1.1 million men had cosmetic procedures in 2010. Plastic surgeons report in the past 10 years their practices, on average, have grown from 10% male patients to 30-40%. Among men the most popular procedures are pinning ears back, liposuction, eyelid surgery and having leg veins removed. Men’s facelifts, however, have increased by 14%. Much of the increase in male cosmetic surgery is attributed to men wanting to last longer in the work force, but the surgery “lifts’ egos too.
The number of inmates returning to state prisons within 3 years hasn’t changed much in a decade. According to a report by the Pew Center, 45% of inmates returned between 1999 and 2002 and 43% returned between 2004 and 2007. Of the 33 states providing data for the report, Minnesota had the highest recidivism rate by 2007 – 61.2%. State prison costs have increased from $10 billion in the mid-80’s to $52 billion, but rehabilitation hasn’t improved. The Pew Center suggested supervision agencies be rewarded with a share of the savings when they reduce prison returns. This might be an idea taxpayers could have strong “convict-ions” about.
Short sleepers are the exception to the rule. They are more energized than regular sleepers. Supposedly 33% of Americans are sleep deprived. They are not getting the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep nightly. However, a small percentage of Americans thrive on 4-6 hours of sleep – and that’s without coffee or naps. Being a short sleeper is the result of a genetic mutation. Short sleepers tend to be thin and have faster metabolisms. They are energetic and multitaskers. They also have more positive attitudes and a higher tolerance for pain. I envy short sleepers – their days are 1-4 hours longer.
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