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National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Chronic Disease Prevention
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National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Chronic Disease Prevention Home | Contact Us |
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CDC’s chronic disease programs are critically important for improving the health of our nation since many chronic diseases can be prevented, some can be detected early and successfully treated, and the effects of “incurable” chronic diseases can be dramatically reduced. While we have made progress, we still have a long way to go.
We spend more money on health care than any other country in the world—medical care for people with chronic diseases accounts for more than 75% of the $1.4 trillion that the United States spends each year on health care.
What causes these diseases? Tobacco is the number one factor, causing more than 400,000 deaths a year. Poor diet and lack of physical activity is the number two cause, accounting for more than 300,000 deaths. It is clear why these health problems exist in our society.
Tackling these problems head on, CDC works through public and private partners, including state health departments, to stem the growing tide of disease. CDC's goal is to work across the lifespan reaching infants and children to middle-aged and older adults with programs that prevent or delay the complications of some of the nation's leading killers. CDC is empowering people to embrace a healthy life now to shape the quality of their lives for years to come.
Today, tests are available that can detect breast cancer, colon cancer, heart disease, and other chronic diseases early, at a time when they can be most effectively treated. Mammograms, colorectal cancer screening tests, and even simple blood pressure checks can save lives.
CDC works with states and communities to make Americans more aware of the importance of these lifesaving tests. CDC also supports a variety of programs to educate Americans about the long-term benefits of preventive screenings.
To improve the quality of life, increase early diagnosis, and improve self-management of certain chronic diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and epilepsy, CDC works with state health departments and other partners to develop programs that will help people with chronic diseases receive appropriate health care and treatment.
The reality is that every American is adversely affected by chronic disease in one way or another—through the death of a loved one; a family member’s struggle with lifelong illness, disability, or compromised quality of life; or the huge personal and societal financial burden from a chronic disease.
One of the biggest problems that we face in preventing chronic diseases is the gap between what we know is effective and what we actually do as a society. Every day CDC is actively looking for ways to better reach the public and close the gap.
Many CDC programs reach out to those who do not have access to quality health services. These projects help communities with underserved populations encourage healthy behaviors and offer effective programs—such as mammograms, diabetes education, and physical activity.
We are at a defining moment in which the health and well-being of our generation and future generations will depend on the choices we make today. With the percentage of Americans over the age of 65 expected to double over the next 30 years, we cannot afford the escalating costs of health care. Many think that if we get better technology and more clinical care, we will solve these problems; however, past experience suggests we must balance our prevention and treatment efforts. If we are serious about improving the health and quality of life of all Americans and keeping our health care spending under control, we must commit to a national health agenda that supports prevention for every American.
| For over 30 years, research has shown that mammography screening reduces breast cancer mortality. Although it is estimated to reduce deaths by 16% for women over the age of 40, the screening rate is only about 70% and less than 40% for the uninsured. | For over 20 years, the Arthritis Self-Help Course has been shown to be effective in teaching people how to manage their arthritis; however, less than 1% of people with arthritis participated in such programs, and courses are not offered in all areas of the United States. |
| Studies have shown that health education in schools can effectively reduce the prevalence of health risks among young people, including tobacco use and obesity; however, fewer than 25 U.S. states have a coordinated school health program supported by CDC. | Results from randomized clinical trials have indicated that controlling blood pressure could prevent heart disease and stroke; however, only 34% of U.S. adults have their blood pressure adequately controlled. |
| Despite the proven benefits of physical activity and a healthy diet, 55% of American adults do not get enough physical activity to provide health benefits, and only 24% of U.S. adults eat the recommended five or more servings of fruit and vegetables daily. | Research shows that reducing blood glucose levels by 1% among people with diabetes reduces their risk for eye, kidney, and nerve disease by 35%; however, one third of adults with diabetes do not receive at least one A1c test per year. |
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
770-488-5131
www.cdc.gov
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Privacy
Policy | Accessibility This page last reviewed August 13, 2004 United
States Department of Health and Human Services |
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Improving
the Health and Quality of Life of All People