US Chronic Diseases: Six in Ten Adults Affected, Tulsa's Fight Against Infectious Illnesses
In the USA, chronic diseases are a significant health concern, with six in ten adults living with at least one, and four in ten battling two or more. These long-term conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and arthritis, can worsen over time. Meanwhile, efforts to combat communicable diseases, like those spread by bacteria or viruses, are ongoing in Tulsa. In 2018, there were 3.4 million emergency room visits in the USA due to these infectious illnesses.
Chronic diseases can make the impact of communicable diseases more severe. In Tulsa, the health department's epidemiologists work tirelessly to manage and prevent these infectious conditions, ranging from enteric illnesses to COVID-19 and Hepatitis A, B, and C. The Tulsa Health Department's Healthy Living Program (HLP), led by Dr. Bruce Dart, focuses on preventing and reducing tobacco use and obesity across Tulsa County. HLP collaborates with various sectors, including businesses, governments, schools, and community organizations, to promote healthy eating, physical activity, and tobacco-free lifestyles. Strategies include creating tobacco-free properties, facilitating gardens and food pantries, restricting smoking in multi-unit housing, and engaging schools in promoting tobacco-free lifestyles.
The prevalence of chronic diseases in the USA underscores the need for robust public health initiatives. In Tulsa, the health department's commitment to combating communicable diseases and promoting healthy living through the HLP is crucial for improving overall health outcomes in the county.
