Chronic diseases are typically characterized by the following features:
-
Long Duration: Chronic diseases persist over a long period, often for a lifetime. They can last for three months or longer.
-
Slow Progression: These conditions usually develop gradually and can worsen over time.
-
Ongoing Management: Chronic diseases often require long-term management strategies, including medication, lifestyle changes, and regular medical follow-up.
-
Multifactorial Causes: They usually result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors rather than a single cause.
-
Impact on Quality of Life: Chronic diseases can significantly affect an individual's daily functioning and overall quality of life.
-
Potential for Complications: Many chronic diseases can lead to other health problems or complications if not managed properly.
Examples of chronic diseases include diabetes, hypertension, chronic heart disease, and arthritis.