Chronic diseases are the leading cause of death and disability in the United States, accounting for 70% of all deaths. It is estimated that 1 out of every 10 Americans suffer the daily limitations and pain of a chronic disease like Rheumatoid Arthritis, Heart Disease, Cancer, Diabetes or Fibromyalgia. While chronic or never-ending diseases are some of the costliest burdens on our health care system, most are preventable by eating a health diet, staying physically active and avoiding tobacco.
One of the most painful and debilitating chronic diseases is Arthritis, which includes over 100 inflammatory diseases affecting the joints and connective tissues. Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Juvenile Arthritis, Gout and Carpal Tunnel Disease are some of the diseases that afflict 46 million adults. Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States and represents over $80 billion in medical costs, so it’s important to take steps to reduce the risk.
Those who are most at risk include women (60% of all cases), the elderly (half of all cases), the obese and those who work in sports or repetitive motion occupations. According to a recent study, the Arthritis Foundation Self Help Program reduces Rheumatoid Arthritic pain by 20% and reduces physician visits by 40%. This small group education course offers physical exercises, which can reduce function decline by up to 41% or disability by 47%, weight loss programs that reduce the risk of knee osteoarthritis by 50%, as well as nutritional advice. Participants in the program can also learn about physical therapy, medications and joint replacement therapy options that can help them live a long and robust life.
Heart Disease is one of the deadliest chronic diseases, which is the leading cause of the death in the US, despite improvements in prevention, detection and treatment. It is a killer of individuals who are in the prime of life, often taking people as young as 40 or 50. Cardiovascular diseases leading to strokes account for over a million disabilities in working Americans, and in 2001, the health care costs reached $298 billion! There are many things you can do to limit your risk of Chronic Heart Disease: avoid or quit smoking; exercise 30-60 minutes, 3-5 days per week; eat your Omega-3s (fish, flaxseed oil, walnuts) and 5-10 daily servings of fruits and vegetables; maintain a healthy weight; and get regular blood pressure/cholesterol level screenings.
The best way to fix the American health care system is through education and health prevention, experts say. While our imminent death may be inevitable, there are many simple steps we can take to ensure a long, happy life with minimal suffering. Too many people have been taken in their golden years by cardiovascular diseases and other chronic diseases. So find a buddy and commit yourself to living healthy! You’re just too smart to live any other way!
Popularity: 2% [?]
