Everyone likes to think they’re in control of their lives and their health. Eating well and exercising will lead to a longer, better life. Choosing the right doctor or hospital will lead to the best possible care.
But a lot of health and health care is the result of chance.
If a preschooler is born in the spring or summer their grandparents are more likely to catch the flu (because they’re less likely to get their annual flu shot and therefore more likely to pass the bug onto their grandparents).
