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Chronic disease is a serious health problem. Chronic diseases are a major cause of death and avoidable admissions to hospital, and have adverse effects on the quality of people’s lives. In its report Chronic Disease and Associated Risk Factors 2006, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare discusses chronic disease as follows: |
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Because of their complex and varied nature, chronic diseases are very difficult to define. They vary considerably in terms of their nature, how they are caused and the extent of their impact on communities. While some chronic diseases may be large contributors to premature death, others contribute more to disability. Some may last indefinitely, whereas others may resolve over time; although generally, chronic diseases are never cured completely. Features common to most chronic diseases include:
Although more common in older age groups (suggesting an underlying role of the ageing process), chronic disease can occur across all age groups. Type 1 diabetes and childhood asthma are classic examples of chronic diseases that begin early in life. |
The prevalence and impact of chronic disease in Queensland is increasing due to four main factors:
However, there is good evidence that many chronic diseases can be prevented from occurring in the first place or from progressing to become complex problems requiring expensive and intensive medical care.
Prevention of chronic disease is everyone’s business. The potential benefits are great and include:
More about the chronic disease strategy for Queensland
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