CHRONIC DISEASES AND CONDITIONS: AN OVERVIEW

WHAT IS A CHRONIC DISEASE?

The National Center for Health Statistics defines a chronic disease or condition as one that lasts three months or more. Certain diseases and conditions are considered chronic regardless of duration.

SKYROCKETING CHRONIC DISEASE RATES THREATEN LIFESPAN GAINS

The life expectancy of Americans, which has been growing for decades, has slowed as skyrocketing rates of obesity, diabetes, and other preventable conditions are taking an increasing toll on the nation’s overall health and longevity.

As stated by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (CDC) Chronic diseases are among the most prevalent and costly health conditions in the United States. 133 million Americans suffer from at least one chronic disease, and the number is growing. 

Although infectious disease rates have plummeted over the last 50 to 60 years, the rate of chronic disease in this country has skyrocketed. We live sicker and die younger in America than in other developed countries, and the gap is growing. 

For the first time in history, a generation is in worse health than the previous generation, experiencing more chronic illness and disability than their parents did at the same chronological age. The United States spends more on healthcare than any other country in the world, so why is our health failing?

In this day and time, it is imperative that you become responsible for your health and the health of your loved ones. With the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, many are taking additional precautions to stay healthy. Even though the COVID-19 is serious it has nothing on AMERICA'S CHRONIC DISEASES.

PRICE FOR CHRONIC ILLNESS

U.S. health care spending increased 3.9 percent to reach $3.5 trillion, or $10,739 per person in 2017. 90% of the nation’s $3.5 trillion in annual health care expenditures are for people with chronic and mental health conditions, cdc.gov.

America's chronic diseases are continuing to be the most costly, persistent, prevalent health conditions, and are the nation’s leading cause of death and disability. Chronic diseases are also leading drivers of the nation’s $3.5 trillion in annual health care costs.

Waiting for a crisis to reveal to you how important it is to be sure your body is prepared for a pandemic situation is a huge mistake. Chronic diseases and conditions are “among the most common, costly, and preventable of all health problems,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST COMMON CHRONIC CONDITIONS?

The CDC reports that the most common chronic diseases and conditions are:

Other common chronic conditions, especially among older adults, include Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and depression.

 

WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS OF CHRONIC DISEASES AND CONDITIONS?

The CDC says most chronic diseases can be traced to a number of key factors, such as:

  • Physical Inactivity
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Tobacco Use
  • Obesity
  • Excessive Alcohol Use
  • Diets Low in Fruits And Vegetables
  • Diets High in Sodium And Saturated Fats

CAN YOU PREVENT CHRONIC DISEASES?

You can take action to help prevent a chronic disease or condition. Some steps you can take:

  • Adequate Amount of Sleep
  • Eat Healthy Food, Such as Fruits and Vegetables
  • Exercise Regularly
  • Stay Mentally Active and Socially Active
  • Avoid Things That Stress You Out
  • Quit Smoking and Drink Less

https://www.cdc.gov/

https://www.healthymepa.com/