It’s not easy to take care of a chronic illness, but with the support of your friends, family and health care provider, you can take the steps you need to better care for your disease. There are many resources to help you improve your nutrition and add physical fitness to your lifestyle. Simple changes, like diet and activity will improve your health. Be sure to check with your health care provider before you begin a new diet or exercise.

Did you know?

• About 100 million Americans have chronic conditions (incurable illnesses or impairments).
• About 41 million Americans with chronic illness are limited in their daily living activities.
• The number of persons with chronic conditions is expected to increase from approximately 100 million in 2005 to 120 million in 2010, to about 135 million in 2020, to about 150 million in 2030
• 20.15 Million, of U.S. working adults ages 18 to 64 have NO health coverage.

The following resources provide general introduction to chronic disease, including prevention and prevalance:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Chronic Disease

The World Health Organization