Our nation faces a health crisis due to the increasing burden of chronic disease. Chronic diseases are responsible for 7 of 10 deaths each year, and treating people with chronic diseases accounts for 86% of our nation’s health care costs.
What are examples of chronic diseases and conditions?
Common Risk Factors
Much of the chronic disease burden is attributable to a short list of key risk factors; most US adults have more than one of these risk factors:
- High blood pressure
- Tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke
- Obesity (high body mass index)
- Physical inactivity
- Excessive alcohol use
- Diets low in fruits and vegetables
- Diets high in sodium and saturated fats
The Four Domains Chronic Disease Prevention System
The four domains help to focus on strategies that collectively address risk factors, behaviors, and multiple conditions, reach as many people as possible, and link community and health care efforts
- Epidemiology and surveillance: to monitor trends and track progress
- Environmental approaches: to promote health and support healthy behaviors
- Health care system interventions: to improve the effective delivery and use of clinical and other high-value preventive services
- Community programs linked to clinical services: to improve and sustain management of chronic conditions.
Click here to view a snapshot of Grant County
Chronic Disease Prevention Tips
Resources: |
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Prediabetes – Your Chance to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes |
Omega-3 in Fish: How eating fish helps your heart |
3 Steps for Women to Prevent Heart Disease |
Preventing Chronic Disease
The good news is that chronic diseases are largely preventable. Engaging in healthy behaviors greatly reduces the risk for illness and death due to chronic diseases:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Avoiding tobacco and alcohol use
- Maintaining daily physical activity
- Eating a healthy diet
Questions? Contact GCHD at 509-766-7960