Surprisingly, there is no standard definition for chronic conditions. However, research suggests that chronic conditions are characterized by:

• duration, typically that they last 6 or more months, although some authors will say as 3 or more months;

• prognosis, that they cannot be cured, but can be managed to reduce symptoms and/or progression;

• pattern in that they present with common symptoms from a similar pathology and progress in a fairly predictable manner and;

• sequalae, meaning the physical and/or mental/emotional consequences (Halloran, Miller, & Britt, 2004).

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While there are some subtle differences between the terms chronic conditions, chronic diseases, and chronic illnesses. In this presentation, we will be using them interchangeably and they will indicate a condition as described above that can be characterized by pattern, prognosis, duration, and sequalae. Chronic conditions & diseases are also known as non-communicable diseases (NCD).

Self-management will be the main focus of this presentation. However, it is extremely important to note that many chronic conditions can be prevented or their onset delayed by living a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity, healthy dietary intake, abstinence from tobacco use, and no more than moderate alcohol intake.

Significantly, according to the WHO, 80% of coronary heart disease, 90% of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and 33% of cancers can be prevented by eating healthier, engaging in more physical activity, and not smoking.

More information about improving nutritional health, engaging in physical activity, and smoking cessation to prevent chronic conditions is discussed in other lectures of this non-communicable disease, i.e., chronic conditions, Supercourse.

References:

Halloran, J., Miller, G.C., & Britt, H. (2004). Defining chronic conditions for primary care with ICPC-2. Family Practice, 21(4), 381-386.

WHO (2005). Preventing chronic diseases: A vital investment. Available at http://www.who.int/chp/chronic_disease_report/full_report.pdf