America is a country made up of over 335 million people (2022) living in various conditions. But whether we call a big city or a small town our home, we have sweeping health problems as a collective population. In 2018, the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association conducted a comprehensive study of the chronic illnesses that most plague Americans, identifying those most prevalent and troublesome. 

From depression to substance abuse, these conditions significantly impact our quality of life and steal our health and wellness. 

The top 10 chronic health issues that we face as a nation, in order of severity and impact, are as follows: 

1.    Hypertension: The NIH defines hypertension – also known as high blood pressure – as “a common disease in which blood flows through blood vessels, or arteries, at higher than normal pressures.” When the force or pressure against an artery wall is elevated, hypertension can occur, putting the individual at increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Hypertension is often associated with obesity, smoking, aging, and anxiety. Because hypertension puts additional stress on the heart and blood vessels with very few early symptoms, it is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer .”

2.    Major Depression: Major depression has become all too commonplace in our society, affecting children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Depression often goes undiagnosed and untreated because its symptoms are so prevalent, but it is a serious mental disorder characterized by pervasive feelings of hopelessness and despair. Individuals who have this condition may find it challenging to accomplish everyday tasks such as sleeping, eating, or working. The inability to properly function at a basic level has a significant negative impact on quality of life. 

3.    High Cholesterol: When cholesterol levels are too high, increased fatty deposits in blood vessels and arteries begin to restrict normal blood flow. Elevated cholesterol is sometimes hereditary, but the condition can also arise from unhealthy diet and lifestyle choices leading to heart attack and stroke.

4.    Coronary Artery Disease: Hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking, and diabetes can all cause internal damage to the coronary artery’s inner layer. If the condition is left untreated, it will develop into heart disease, which is a leading cause of heart attack and stroke.

5.    Type 2 Diabetes: People with diabetes are diagnosed by identifying higher than normal blood sugar levels. The most common form of the disease is Type 2 diabetes, which is attributed to obesity and lack of physical activity in a vast number of cases.

6.    Substance Use Disorder: Drug addiction, whether involving legal, prescription, or illegal drugs, is characterized by an overuse of, or dependence on, the toxin in question. Substance abuse is the cause of severe mental and physical injuries, overdose and even death in millions of Americans.

7.    Alcohol Use Disorder:  Alcohol use disorder is defined by the NIH as a “chronic relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over alcohol intake, and a negative emotional state when not using.” In extreme cases, elevated blood alcohol levels can result in coma or death, and alcohol withdrawal is known to cause seizures or hallucinations.

8.    Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD):  This inflammatory lung condition obstructs the airflow from the lungs and is primarily caused by long-term cigarette use. Those with COPD were considered at greater risk during the pandemic due to their compromised respiratory system. 

9.    Psychotic Disorder: Common psychotic conditions include schizophrenia and delusional disorder prevent the patient from maintaining a coherent sense of reality. These mental disorders can wreak havoc on a person’s relationships and quality of life.

10.    Crohn’s Disease/Ulcerative Colitis:  Crohn’s is a chronic disease that affects the small intestine and portions of the large intestine, resulting in inflammation in the digestive tract. This condition can further lead to ulcers, abscesses, and malnutrition. Not only is Crohn’s painful, but it can also be life-threatening if complications arise.

The Good News: Disease Can Be Treated 

Although the above diseases may seem overwhelming in their severity, the good news is that most of them can be treated successfully. Natural health and holistic methods that incorporate diet and lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on these conditions. Patients may also see positive results from detoxification treatments and non-traditional medication.

If you live with a life-altering, chronic illness and wish to seek alternatives to prescription medications that can further stress your system  – call the experts at Longevity Wellness Clinic. We will work with you to identify the root cause of your condition and incorporate natural, life-affirming methods to cleanse and heal your body.