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Chronic Disease

In Colorado and across the United States, chronic diseases are the biggest threat to health and wellness. Heart disease, diabetes, cancer, lung disease and other chronic conditions last over a long period of time, limit everyday activities and lead to increased disability. They are also the leading causes of death. Fortunately, chronic diseases are among the most preventable of all health problems.

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Chronic Disease Facts
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In Colorado and across the United States, chronic diseases are the biggest threat to health and wellness. Heart disease, diabetes, cancer, lung disease and other chronic conditions last over a long period of time, limit everyday activities and lead to increased disability. They are also the leading causes of death.

  • Nearly half of all Americans suffer from at least one chronic disease.
  • More than 80% of all deaths in Colorado in 2005 were due to chronic disease. Cancer and heart disease alone made up nearly 60% of deaths among Coloradans.
  • In general, rates of illness and death from chronic diseases are higher among racial and ethnic minorities, persons with low income, and persons who live in rural or frontier areas of the state, although this may vary by disease.

Chronic diseases burden the health care system because they require ongoing medical care.

  • Average health care costs for people with at least one chronic disease are 2-1/2 times higher than for people with no chronic conditions.
  • More than 80% of all health care spending is for persons with chronic disease.

Fortunately, chronic diseases are among the most preventable of all health problems.

  • Most chronic diseases are linked to obesity, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, and tobacco use. Reducing these behaviors among Coloradans can lead to lower rates of chronic disease and fewer complications.
  • Screening techniques such as checking blood cholesterol levels and receiving regular mammograms can detect chronic diseases at early stages when they are easier to control or treat.
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Chronic Disease Programs
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The Prevention Services Division of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, working with partner organizations and agencies across the state, has developed programs to address the primary chronic diseases and their associated risk factors.
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