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Chronic Diseases affected 133 million Americans in 2005
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Chronic diseases are inflicted upon one out of every two adults. Mostly the result of heart disease, cancer and stroke. It has been reported that nearly one out of every two adults (some 133 million of us) had at least one chronic illness in 2005.WHY SO MANY? There are many reasons for such a large number of people suffering from these chronic illnesses. Consider the fact that one in every three adults in the country are obese. Even more alarming might be the number of obese youth. Nearly 20 percent (one in every five) of our youth between the ages of six and 19 is considered to be obese.It should not be surprising that 25 percent of those with chronic conditions are severely limited in their daily activity. Some 19 million Americans report that they have some activity limitations. Arthritis is the most common cause of disability.Diabetes is one of the more disabling of diseases. It affects such a large range of age groups beginning as early as 20. A major cause of kidney failure results from the ravages of diabetes. It is a leading cause of lower-extremity amputations and blindness among adults. SOME SIMPLE STEPS Much of this illness could most likely be eliminated with proper diet and physical activity along with stopping the use of tobacco (fortunately there has been much progress in the use of tobacco). Most surprising to many is the fourth most preventable cause – excessive alcohol consumption. So much of the suffering and early death that is related to chronic diseases could be eliminated. SOME DISTURBING TRENDS In a 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans study it was reported that one-third of all adults aerobic physical activity does not meet recommended levels. No leisure-time activity of any sort was reported by 23%.In a 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans study it was reported that one-third of all adults aerobic physical activity does not meet recommended levels. No leisure-time activity of any sort was reported by 23%.Lack of a proper diet continues to contribute to illness. In a 2007 study it was reported that we do not eat enough servings of fruits and vegetables. Only 22% of high school students had five or more servings per day and only 24% of adults. It seems to be a impossible goal to achieve acceptable guidelines in our diet. This site does not, nor would it ever, provide medical advice. For anyone with a medical condition, or using prescribed drugs, consult with your health care provider before making any changes in your treatment procedure. Information on this site should never be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice. This site only provides information for those who are interested in a med (drug) free life style. By definition, their health must be in a state where prescription drugs are not required. Any substitution for prescription drugs should only be made after consultation with one’s health care provider. Should anyone have any doubts as to their need for health care advice, one should seek it out without delay. This site does not, nor would it ever, provide medical advice.
For anyone with a medical condition, or using prescribed drugs, consult with your health care provider before making any changes in your treatment procedure. Information on this site should never be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice. This site only provides information for those who are interested in a med (drug) free life style. By definition, their health must be in a state where prescription drugs are not required. Any substitution for prescription drugs should only be made after consultation with one’s health care provider. Should anyone have any doubts as to their need for health care advice, one should seek it out without delay. |
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