What is chronic disease?
A chronic disease is a disease like cancer, heart disease, asthma, COPD, and diabetes that can be controlled but not cured.
- Are the leading cause of death and disability in the United States
- Cause major limitations in daily living for almost 1 out of 10 Americans or about 25 million people
- Are among the most common and costly health problems
Did you know?
- About 100 million Americans have chronic conditions (incurable illnesses or impairments).
- About 41 million Americans with chronic illness are limited in their daily living activities.
- The number of persons with chronic conditions is expected to increase from approximately 100 million in 2005 to 120 million in 2010, to about 135 million in 2020, to about 150 million in 2030.
- 20.15 Million U.S. working adults ages 18 to 64 have NO health coverage.
The good news?
Chronic disease is highly preventable!
You can help prevent chronic disease by:
Other good news?
You can help manage your chronic disease by making some very simple lifestyle changes.
- Limit salt if you are living with heart disease
- Eat lots of fruits and veggies if you are living with cancer
- Drink plenty of water if you are living with COPD
- Know the symptoms of high and low blood sugar if you are living with diabetes
- Know your asthma triggers and avoid them
What if I am diagnosed with a chronic disease?
The best option is to educate yourself about the chronic disease you have been diagnosed with and do all you can to manage it. Living with and managing a chronic disease is not always easy.