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Abstract
The concept of health-risk appraisal (HRA), introduced nearly 20 years ago, is an attempt to help patients identify their risk factors for the leading causes of death and then motivate them to reduce these risks. A variety of HRA instruments are available, and further refinements are expected. Despite flaws, the HRA has become an accepted adjunct to other preventive health services. In this article, Drs Fletcher and Smith describe the various instruments available and discuss clinical applications of the HRA. In the authors' opinion, the HRA is a useful tool when used in conjunction with a periodic-health-monitoring plan.