The profile of diseases contributing most heavily to death, illness, and disability among Americans changed dramatically during the last century. Today, chronic diseases—such as cardiovascular disease (primarily heart disease and stroke), cancer, and diabetes—are among the most prevalent, costly, and preventable of all health problems. Seven of every 10 Americans who die each year, or more than 1.7 million people, die of a chronic disease. The prolonged course of illness and disability from such chronic diseases as diabetes and arthritis results in extended pain and suffering and decreased quality of life for millions of Americans. Chronic, disabling conditions cause major limitations in activity for more than one of every 10 Americans, or 25 million people.

The size and character of the elderly population in the United States is rapidly changing. These major demographic shifts have prompted numerous concerns in US social and health policy. Aging "baby boomers" (the generation born between 1940 and 1960) are expected to have major effects on our health and social service systems.

For more information: AGS - Aging In The Know

People with chronic conditions such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, lung disease, and depression are
healthcare’s largest, highest-cost, and fastest-growing service group. Over 125 million Americans have one
or more chronic conditions.1 The number of Americans with one or more chronic conditions is projected to
increase by more than one percent each year through 2030.