Chronic Disease

Chronic diseases are health conditions that persist over a prolonged period and can increase the likelihood of experiencing more, and often more severe, additional health problems. Six in 10 adults in the United States have a chronic disease, and 4 in 10 adults have two or more, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Heart disease and stroke, diabetes, cancer, obesity, arthritis, and Alzheimer’s disease are some of the most common chronic diseases. In 2017, over $3.5 trillion was spent on health care, of which 90% went to managing chronic conditions. For many people, having at least one chronic health condition increases their chances of having more, or more serious, comorbid conditions. Over 10% of the U.S. population have five or more ...