Unfortunately, despite the World Health Organization’s focus on preventing chronic conditions, also known as non-communicable diseases (NCD), chronic conditions are now the leading cause of death and disability worldwide (WHO, 2005). Of the 58 million deaths in 2005, 37 million were caused by chronic disease. In addition,

Chronic conditions, including cardiovascular diseases (CVD), diabetes, obesity, cancers and respiratory diseases, can be attributed to 37 million deaths annually.

While prevention of chronic conditions through healthy lifestyles and behavior is the long-term solution to a healthier world, self-management is the key to improving health and quality of life and reducing health care expenditures for those who are living with chronic conditions. 

References:

Strong, K., Mathers, C., Epping-Jordan, J., & Beaglehole, R. (2006). Preventing chronic disease: A priority for global health. International Journal of Epidemiology, 35(2), 492. 

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