Care of chronic illness is especially complicated. After all, if you have a chronic illness you must deal with its effects on a long term basis- sometimes 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Often times people do best when they are in an active partnership with their health care providers.

You are in a position to monitor and respond to your illness in a continuous way. You can set goals and priorities in a manner appropriate to your values and wishes. Often times your family, friends, and community are an important part of your care and exercise and appropriate nutrition are key factors.

"Chronic diseases - such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes—are the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. These diseases account for 7 of every 10 deaths and affect the quality of life of 90 million Americans. Although chronic diseases are among the most common and costly health problems, they are also among the most preventable. Adopting healthy behaviors such as eating nutritious foods, being physically active, and avoiding tobacco use can prevent or control the devastating effects of these diseases." - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention