The most common chronic diseases in adults are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, arthritis, obesity, diabetes, depression, heart disease, cancer, COPD, and asthma. About 93% of adults age 65 and older have at least one chronic condition, while 79% have two or more. Even younger adults face this challenge—in 2023, 76.4% of US adults reported having at least one chronic condition, including 59.5% of young adults ages 18-34.
Living with chronic disease is like being in a marathon you never signed up for. But here’s some good news: most of these conditions can be managed or even prevented with the right steps. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about the ten most common chronic diseases, what causes them, and how to take control of your health.
Understanding Chronic Disease in America
What Makes a Disease Chronic?
Chronic diseases are defined as conditions that last 1 year or more and require ongoing medical attention or limit activities of daily living or both. They’re different from the flu or a broken bone—these conditions stick around and need long-term care.
Think of chronic diseases like a car that needs regular maintenance. You can’t fix them once and forget about them. They need ongoing attention to keep running smoothly.
The Growing Problem
The numbers tell a stark story. In the US, direct healthcare costs for chronic conditions reached $1.1 trillion in 2016, and costs continue to rise. Six out of 10 Americans have one chronic disease and four out of 10 have two or more chronic diseases that account for ninety percent of the $4.5 trillion annual health care costs in the nation.
Why are chronic diseases becoming more common? Several factors play a role:
- People are living longer
- Many folks don’t get enough exercise
- Fast food and processed meals are everywhere
- Stress levels are through the roof
- Many communities lack safe places to exercise or stores with healthy food
The Top 10 Most Common Chronic Diseases
Number 1: High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
About 61% of older adults have hypertension—a common condition that involves both how much blood your heart pumps, as well as how resistant your arteries are to the blood flow. It’s called the “silent killer” because you can have it for years without knowing.
Who Gets It Most Often?
High blood pressure doesn’t play favorites, but some groups face higher risks. Hypertension affects one in three Americans ages 30-79. Black adults often develop it earlier and have higher rates than other groups.
Simple Ways to Lower Your Risk
Managing blood pressure doesn’t have to be complicated:
- Cut back on salt (aim for less than a teaspoon daily)
- Take a 30-minute walk every day
- Find healthy ways to handle stress
- Check your blood pressure regularly
Many people find success with the hypertension management program in Lisle, which provides personalized care plans.
Number 2: High Cholesterol
Fifty-five percent of older adults have high cholesterol—a condition that occurs when your body has an excess of bad fats, resulting in your arteries getting clogged. Think of cholesterol like grease in your kitchen pipes—too much and things start to back up.
What Raises Cholesterol?
Several things can bump up your cholesterol:
- Eating too many fried foods
- Sitting too much
- Smoking
- Family history
- Being overweight
Getting Cholesterol Under Control
Small changes make a big difference:
- Choose grilled over fried foods
- Add more fruits and vegetables to your plate
- Move your body every day
- Consider cholesterol management services for personalized help
Number 3: Arthritis
About 51% of older adults live with arthritis—an inflammation of the joints that causes pain and stiffness and is more common in women. It can make simple tasks like opening a jar or climbing stairs feel like climbing Mount Everest.
Types of Arthritis
The two main forms are:
- Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear on joints over time
- Rheumatoid arthritis: When the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints
Living Better With Arthritis
You don’t have to let arthritis run your life:
- Stay active with gentle exercises like swimming or yoga
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint pressure
- Use hot and cold packs for pain relief
- Work with your doctor to build a personalized treatment plan
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Joint pain, swelling, stiffness (especially in the morning), and reduced range of motion are common. Some people also experience flare-ups—periods when symptoms suddenly become more intense.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Risk increases with age, but arthritis can happen at any age. Other risk factors include family history, previous joint injuries, obesity, and autoimmune conditions. Women are more likely than men to experience certain types.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and severity. Many people benefit from anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy to strengthen joints, and assistive devices to reduce strain. In more advanced cases, joint injections or surgery may be recommended.
When to See a Doctor
If joint pain lasts more than a few weeks, or if stiffness and swelling interfere with normal daily activities, it’s important to see a healthcare provider. Early care can prevent long-term joint damage and preserve mobility.
Number 4: Obesity
About 30% of adults 65 and older are living with obesity, a chronic disease linked to more than 200 chronic conditions. The obesity rate in the U.S. is more than twice as high as that in comparable countries. In 2022, 42.0% of U.S. adults were classified as obese.
Why Obesity Matters
Obesity isn’t just about weight—it increases your risk for:
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Some cancers
- Sleep apnea
- Arthritis
Healthy Weight Loss That Lasts
Forget crash diets. Real change comes from:
- Making small, steady changes
- Finding physical activities you enjoy
- Building a support system
- Considering medical options like GLP-1 medicated weight loss when appropriate
Number 5: Diabetes
Twenty-four percent of older adults have diabetes—a disease that occurs when your body is resistant to, or doesn’t produce enough, insulin. In 2022, the U.S. had the highest percent of adults with diabetes at 12.5% compared to the average of 6.1% among peer nations.
Type 1 vs. Type 2
- Type 1: Your body doesn’t make insulin (usually starts in childhood)
- Type 2: Your body doesn’t use insulin properly (more common in adults)
Managing Diabetes Day by Day
Living well with diabetes means:
- Checking blood sugar as directed
- Eating regular, balanced meals
- Getting regular exercise
- Taking medications as prescribed
- Getting support from diabetes management programs
Number 6: Cancer
Cancer impacts 20% of older adults. While the word “cancer” can be scary, early detection and treatment have improved dramatically.
Reducing Your Risk
You can’t control everything, but you can:
- Quit smoking (or never start)
- Wear sunscreen every day
- Limit alcohol
- Stay at a healthy weight
- Get regular screenings
Early Detection Saves Lives
Don’t skip these important screenings:
- Mammograms for breast cancer
- Colonoscopies for colon cancer
- Skin checks for skin cancer
- Lung scans for high-risk individuals
Number 7: Heart Disease
About 16% of older adults have heart disease—a condition that occurs when the heart cannot adequately supply blood and oxygen to all of the organs in the body. In the United States in 2021, 934,509 people died of CVD (including heart disease and stroke), a 0.6% increase when compared with 2020.
Warning Signs to Watch
Don’t ignore these symptoms:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Shortness of breath
- Extreme fatigue
- Irregular heartbeat
- Swelling in feet or ankles
Protecting Your Heart
Your heart works hard for you—return the favor:
- Exercise regularly (even walking counts!)
- Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques
- Get enough sleep (7-8 hours nightly)
- Consider heart disease management for comprehensive care
Number 8: Depression
15% of older adults have depression—a treatable medical condition that is not a normal part of aging. Among younger adults, the rates are even higher. Notable increases among young adults for depression went from 16.4% to 25.0%.
It’s More Than Feeling Sad
Depression affects your whole life:
- Persistent sadness or emptiness
- Loss of interest in activities
- Changes in appetite or sleep
- Difficulty concentrating
- Physical aches and pains
Getting Help and Hope
Depression is treatable:
- Talk to your doctor about how you’re feeling
- Consider therapy or counseling
- Stay connected with friends and family
- Keep a regular routine
- Explore depression treatment options
Number 9: COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
About 12% of older adults 65+ have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes two main conditions: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It makes breathing feel like trying to suck air through a straw.
Main Causes
The biggest culprit? Smoking. But other factors include:
- Long-term exposure to air pollution
- Chemical fumes at work
- Genetics (in rare cases)
Breathing Easier With COPD
While COPD can’t be cured, you can manage it:
- Quit smoking immediately
- Use prescribed inhalers correctly
- Stay active within your limits
- Get vaccinated against flu and pneumonia
- Work with respiratory disease management specialists
Number 10: Asthma
An estimated 9% of adults 65+ have asthma, which causes swelling and tightening of the airways in the lungs. It can make you feel like you’re breathing through a coffee stirrer.
Common Triggers
Everyone’s triggers are different, but common ones include:
- Allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander)
- Exercise
- Cold air
- Stress
- Smoke and strong smells
Controlling Asthma
Take charge of your breathing:
- Know and avoid your triggers
- Use controller medications daily
- Keep a rescue inhaler handy
- Monitor your symptoms
- Create an asthma action plan with your doctor
What Causes Chronic Diseases?
The Main Culprits
Most chronic diseases are caused by a short list of risk factors: smoking, poor nutrition, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol use. It’s like a perfect storm of bad habits meeting genetics.
Risk Factors You Can Control
The good news? Many risk factors are in your hands:
- Smoking: The single worst thing for your health
- Poor diet: Too much junk food, not enough real food
- Lack of exercise: Sitting is the new smoking
- Heavy drinking: More than moderate amounts harm your body
- Stress: Chronic stress wreaks havoc on your health
Risk Factors You Can’t Control
Some things are out of your hands:
- Age (risk increases as you get older)
- Family history
- Gender (some diseases favor men or women)
- Race and ethnicity
Prevention Strategies That Actually Work
Small Changes, Big Results
You don’t need to overhaul your entire life. Start with these simple steps:
- Move more: Even 10-minute walks help
- Eat better: Add one vegetable to each meal
- Sleep well: Aim for 7-8 hours nightly
- Manage stress: Try deep breathing or meditation
- Stay connected: Social connections boost health
The Power of Regular Check-Ups
Don’t wait until something’s wrong. Annual physicals can catch problems early when they’re easier to treat. Think of it like changing your car’s oil—regular maintenance prevents major breakdowns.
Building Healthy Habits
Creating lasting change takes time:
- Start with one small change
- Make it so easy you can’t say no
- Do it at the same time each day
- Reward yourself for sticking with it
- Add another change once the first becomes automatic
Managing Multiple Chronic Conditions
The Challenge of Multiple Conditions
In 2023, approximately 51.4% of US adults had two or more chronic conditions. Managing multiple conditions is like juggling—it takes practice and support.
Coordinating Your Care
When you have multiple conditions:
- Keep all your doctors informed about all conditions and medications
- Use one pharmacy for all prescriptions
- Keep a health journal
- Consider chronic disease management programs
- Ask about care coordinators
Medication Management
Taking multiple medications? Stay organized:
- Use a pill organizer
- Set phone reminders
- Keep an updated medication list
- Review all medications with your doctor regularly
- Ask about potential interactions
The Role of Technology in Managing Chronic Disease
Digital Health Tools
Technology is changing how we manage chronic conditions:
- Apps for tracking symptoms
- Wearable devices monitoring vital signs
- Telemedicine for convenient appointments
- Online support groups
- Digital reminders for medications
Choosing the Right Tools
Not all health apps are created equal. Look for:
- Evidence-based information
- Privacy protection
- Easy-to-use interfaces
- Integration with your healthcare team
- Regular updates and support
Living Well With Chronic Disease
Quality of Life Matters
Having a chronic disease doesn’t mean giving up on life. Many people with chronic conditions live full, active lives. The key is finding what works for you.
Building Your Support Team
You don’t have to do this alone:
- Family and friends
- Healthcare providers
- Support groups
- Mental health professionals
- Community resources
Staying Positive but Realistic
Living with chronic disease is tough. It’s okay to have bad days. What matters is:
- Accepting where you are
- Focusing on what you can control
- Celebrating small victories
- Asking for help when needed
- Taking things one day at a time
Final Thoughts
Chronic diseases affect millions of Americans, but they don’t have to control your life. Whether you’re dealing with one condition or several, remember that small, consistent steps lead to big improvements over time.
The key is finding the right support and taking action. Don’t wait for the “perfect” time to start making healthy changes—that time is now. Whether it’s scheduling that overdue check-up, taking a short walk, or reaching out for help managing your conditions, every step counts.
If you’re ready to take control of your health, consider scheduling a consultation with a healthcare provider who understands the challenges of chronic disease management. At Yorktown Health Lisle, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the condition. Contact us today to start your journey toward better health. Your future self will thank you.