1. Are Chronic diseases treatable?
No, people can take medicine to hide the symptoms, but, as of 2009, our technology has not yet found cures to these diseases.
2. What are the most common chronic diseases?
The most common chronic diseases are heart disease, followed by cancer and stroke.
3. How many people are affected by chronic disease?
Almost 35 million die a year from chronic disease, and are costing the government and economy of the United States alone an estimated $1.3 trillion annually.
4. What are the most common risk factors that increase the chances of getting a chronic disease?
The most common risk factors of chronic disease are lack of physical activity, a high-fat diet, obesity, smoking, alcohol use, and being around environmental pollutants.
5. How can I prevent chronic disease?
Chronic disease is most preventable by eliminating the major risk factors that could lead to chronic conditions. To reverse obesity, dedicate at least 30 minutes of each day to being physically active, decrease your calorie intake, and replace high-fat foods with nutritious substitutes. Join a support group and stop smoking. Decrease the amount of alcohol in your diet. Take the necessary precautions when working around potentially harmful chemicals, and try to stay away from second-hand smoke.
6. What does a nutritious diet look like?
A nutritious diet includes at least 3 cups of vegetables and 2 cups of fruits a day. It includes many sources of fiber (fruits, veggies, legumes, whole grains), and lean meat and fish instead of red meat. Whole grains are also an important part of a healthy diet and about 8 oz. of carbohydrates should be consumed each day. Fruits and vegetables are most nutritious when eaten raw or steamed, and meats should be grilled or baked – not burned, charred, or too undercooked. It is best to not add salt to meals, or eat lots of processed or frozen foods. Avoid sugared, battered, and/or fried foods. Try to replace alcohol, soft drinks, and sweetened juices with 8 oz. of water, low-fat milk, or unsweetened juices. Remember that it’s ok to have treats every once in a while, but to eat them in moderation rather than on a regular basis. A healthy diet is one that has variety, control, moderation, and balance in food choices.
7. What are the common screening tests for chronic diseases?
Heart disease: screening is done by ultrasounds and x-rays of the heart, as well as an electrocardiogram (which monitor how your heart is beating). It is done in a doctor’s office and usually is completed after signs and symptoms of a heart condition is present, however screening for hypertension and blood-lipid levels can be done at a regular doctors appointment and are just as important in preventing heart disease.
Cancer: self-examinations can be done for skin and breast cancer, while an annual exam should be made to get a mammogram, skin check, and digital rectal exam after the age of 40. After the age of 50, a colonoscopy should also be done at least once every 10 years.
Stroke: screening for hypertension and blood-lipid levels is just as important for preventing a stroke as it is for preventing heart disease. Make sure you are screened annually, and go to the doctor immediately if you experience the signs and symptoms of an oncoming stroke. An MRI or CT scan will be taken in that situation to see if you are in danger of brain hemorrhaging or having a clot in one of the main arteries that goes to the brain.
Diabetes: screening includes blood tests to check blood glucose levels. Blood must be taken after fasting. If the blood glucose levels are persistently high for multiple tests, then the doctor will run more tests to see if you have diabetes, and what type.
8. Are genetics a major factor in chronic disease?
Although genetics may influence what health conditions you could develop later in life, it doesn’t automatically define which diseases you’ll get. Chronic disease is mostly caused by poor nutrition, inadequate physical activity, and smoking and alcohol use, rather than genetic pre-disposition.
9. Is chronic disease a global problem or just in developed countries?
Many people believe that infectious disease is the main cause of death in developing countries, but chronic disease accounts for almost half of the deaths world-wide. It is a growing problem that will soon account for more deaths than infectious diseases and accidental deaths.
10. Who is responsible for educating people on chronic disease in the United States? What are they doing to help Americans reduce the amount of chronic disease in our nation?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are the government agencies responsible for helping this country learn about and overcome the burden of chronic disease. They’ve started education programs, maintain an informative website, fund free screenings, and help influence law making that will lead to healthier life-styles and an eventual decrease in chronic disease.
