What are the most common chronic diseases?
While chronic diseases can differ in type and severity, they all have one thing in common: long-term conditions require ongoing management. In the United States, many different chronic diseases impact millions of people. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 6 in 10 adults in the US have a chronic disease.
The most common chronic diseases are heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and arthritis. Each of these conditions can cause significant health problems and reduced quality of life if not controlled. Fortunately, advances in research and treatment mean that many people with chronic diseases in Charlotte NC now live longer, healthier lives.
However, it is important to understand that these diseases can significantly reduce the quality of life and increase healthcare costs. While there is no one cure for chronic diseases, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage them effectively.
Here are the most common chronic diseases
There are a number of common chronic diseases that people suffer from. The most common ones are heart disease, cancer, diabetes mellitus, and arthritis. All of these diseases can significantly impact a person's quality of life. They can also be difficult to treat, which is why it's essential to seek medical help as soon as you start experiencing the symptoms.
Heart disease: the leading cause of death in America
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death in America. Every 36 seconds, someone in the United States dies from cardiovascular disease. And every year, around 659,000 individuals die from heart disease—that's 1 in every 4 fatalities.
Heart disease happens when the blood that is flowing outside the heart clogs the arteries that bring blood into your heart. This can block oxygen from getting to organs or parts of your body, which can lead to a heart attack, stroke, or damage to other organs.
This disease also increases the risk of developing other ones such as:
If you have heart disease, it's important to work with your family doctor in Charlotte NC to create a treatment plan that will help you manage your condition. This may include making lifestyle changes, taking medications, or surgery - depending on the case.
Cancer: affects more than 1 million Americans each year
Cancer is a general term for a large group of diseases that involve the abnormal growth of cells. In 2021, cancer has affected roughly 1.9 million Americans, and it is the second leading cause of death in the United States. There are many different types of cancer, but some of the most common include breast cancer, prostate cancer, and lung cancer.
These cancers can be treated with a variety of methods, including:
Diabetes: a lifelong condition that requires careful management
Diabetes needs careful management in order to avoid health complications. This includes regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly. If diabetes is not well-managed, it can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Arthritis: a joint disorder that causes pain and stiffness in the joints
Arthritis is a joint disorder that results in inflammation and pain in one or more joints. The condition can occur at any age but is more common in older adults. There are several types of arthritis, the most common of which is osteoarthritis. Symptoms of arthritis include pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Treatment for arthritis includes medications to reduce inflammation and pain, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery.
Conclusion
Heart disease, cancer, diabetes mellitus, and arthritis are all serious health conditions that affect millions of Americans each year. If you or someone in your family is suffering from one (or more) of these diseases, then it's important to get the care you need. When our team at Ballantyne Medical sees patients with any type of chronic medical issue, we make sure they understand what they're dealing with and how best to deal with it.
Are you or a loved one experiencing any symptoms of these diseases? Make sure to book an appointment here as soon as possible with a family medical center in Charlotte NC.
