Just as the President gives an update and review each year during the State of the Union Address, it's important that we do the same for the health of our nation. These statistics are not given to scare, blame, or judge - but rather to show the urgent need for change. Read on to discover the current state of health with chronic disease.
Part 1: What are we facing?
Chronic diseases have continued to increase. Chronic diseases are defined broadly as conditions that last 1 year or more and require ongoing medical attention or limit activities of daily living or both, according to the CDC.
The Leading Causes of Death and Disability
The leading cause of death is heart disease and stroke.
High blood pressure is a leading cause of heart disease and stroke because it damages the lining of the arteries, making them more susceptible to the buildup of plaque, which narrows the arteries leading to the heart and brain.
About 116 million US adults (nearly 1 in 2) have high blood pressure, defined as 130/80 mm Hg or higher.
The second leading cause of death is cancer.
The third leading cause of death and disability is diabetes.
In the United States, nearly 74% of adults have too much weight they are carrying around.
Unfortunately, it is not just adults who have too much weight. Read more about childhood obesity.
The less talked about chronic diseases, like anxiety, stress, and loneliness are just as important to focus on. These diseases also have an affect on our health and lifespan.
Continue reading Part 2: What is it costing us?
Don't need to read anymore? Ready to see what it could look like to recalibrate your life together?
Statistics obtained from The Center for Disease Control
Content outline adapted from The Nurse Coach Collective
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