Chronic Disease Day Date in the current year: July 10, 2024

A chronic disease, also known as chronic illness or chronic condition, is a health condition or disease that lasts for a long time, typically 12 months or longer (although in some contexts the term “chronic” may be applied to a disease that lasts for more than three months). Some chronic diseases may temporarily go away thanks to treatment or on their own, but periods of remission are typically followed by periods of relapse (flare-ups).

There are dozens of chronic diseases; some are common in most parts of the word, while others are extremely rare. Common chronic diseases and health conditions include Alzheimer’s disease, ADHD, arthritis, autoimmune diseases, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, chronic hepatitis, chronic kidney disease, COPD, diabetes, dermatological conditions (atopic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis), epilepsy, fibromyalgia and myalgic encephatomyelitis, HIV/AIDS, migraines, multiple sclerosis, obesity, Parkinson’s disease, sleep apnea, thyroid disease, tuberculosis, and many more.

In the United States, chronic conditions are the leading cause of disability and death. 60% of all adults in the country have been diagnosed with at least one chronic disease, and 40% of adults are living with two or more chronic conditions. Since people with chronic conditions require constant treatment and care, chronic illnesses contribute to more than 90% of the annual health care spending in the United States.

Not all chronic diseases are preventable, but many can be prevented simply by practicing self-care and living a healthy lifestyle. Major modifiable risk factors for chronic conditions include poor diet (high sodium, high saturated fat, low in fresh fruits and vegetables), lack of exercise or other physical activity, excessive alcohol use, tobacco smoking, and stress. Knowing your family medical history and getting routine check-ups is also important for preventing chronic diseases or at least diagnosing them early and maintaining the best quality of life possible.

Chronic Disease Day, also referred to as Chronic Disease Awareness Day, was launched in 2022 by Good Days, a national non-profit charitable organization that strives to help people affected by chronic illness through awareness, advocacy, and assistance. It is observed on July 10 (7/10) to highlight the fact that chronic disease is responsible for seven of the top 10 leading causes of death in the US.

There are many ways to get involved with Chronic Disease Day. You can learn more about chronic diseases and their effects on people’s health, help spread resources for people affected by chronic diseases and their families, participate in a Chronic Disease Day event near you or organize an event of your own, and spread the word on social media with the hashtag #ChronicDiseaseDay and #CDADay. If you’re living with a chronic condition, consider sharing your story to give others hope. And if you have no chronic conditions, take a pledge to live healthier in order to prevent them.