According to the CDC, six in ten Americans live with at least one chronic disease. Chronic diseases are the leading causes of death and disability in America, and they are also a leading driver of health care costs.
Some of the most common chronic diseases include:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Arthritis
Other types of chronic conditions include:
- Asthma
- Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
- Cystic fibrosis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Eating disorders
- Gum disease
Research from the CDC revealed, more than 800,000 Americans die of heart disease or stroke every year. These diseases not only take a toll on the health of the person, but takes an economic toll. Chronic conditions cost the health care system $200 billion per year and causes over $130 billion in lost productivity on the job. About half of all American adults has at least one chronic health problem and about one in four adults had two or more chronic diseases.
Unfortunately, these conditions can cause other long-term complications, including kidney failure, disability, and limb amputation. Your provider, however, can often help treat chronic conditions and possibly prevent or slow down a declining state of health. It is vital when dealing with a chronic health condition to work with a provider to find the best ways to treat your condition and manage your symptoms. Through routine medical visits or connections, we can pinpoint issues while they are manageable - sometimes even when still reversible.
Causes of Chronic Disease:
So, what causes chronic diseases in the first place? While there are many factors, one of the main issues is unhealthy behaviors such as:
- Inactivity
- Poor nutrition
- Excessive alcohol use
- Using tobacco
By changing these habits, you can greatly decrease your chances of developing some of these chronic illnesses or help improve your health when dealing with a chronic condition.
It can be a challenge to know exactly what constitutes a healthy diet or what exercise plan is right for you. Your provider can discuss meal plans, exercise plan, and management of your chronic condition. Partnering with a provider will benefit you in lowering your risk factors regarding chronic diseases. Providers can also help you connect with community resources that will offer support in lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation or quitting drinking.
Partnering in care with a provider offers improved management for your chronic condition and or possibly prevention thereby improving your quality of life. Don't hesitate - if you think you may be suffering the symptoms of a chronic disease, schedule an appointment today.