Chronic Disease Awareness Day

Some of the most common chronic diseases that can have a debilitating impact on a person’s life include heart disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, colorectal and many others. These diseases may come out of nowhere, but many times there are various warning signs that allow them to be caught early and treated more proactively. 

Chronic Disease Awareness Day is here to increase public knowledge and work hard to improve access to health information of each person in every community!

History of Chronic Disease Awareness Day

Chronic Disease Awareness Day is scheduled to take place each year on July 10 (7/10) because chronic disease is responsible for 7 out of the top 10 leading causes of death in the United States. The day was founded with the purpose of educating individuals and the community about chronic disease, the effects it can have on a person’s health, the opportunities for prevention and the resources available for those who need them.

When individuals and families are aware of different warning signs, prevention opportunities for early detection, it can add years to a person’s lifespan. Chronic Disease Awareness Day seeks to invite and include everyone in the community to events, activities, and actions that can reduce the negative impact of chronic disease.

How to Observe Chronic Disease Awareness Day

Show some support for friends, family members or others with chronic disease and get involved by learning about prevention and early detection with some of these activities for Chronic Disease Awareness Day:

Schedule a Wellness Checkup

One of the most important factors in prevention of chronic disease is preventative health care. Don’t forget to schedule an annual wellness checkup with a general practitioner and let them know about any concerns or issues. This type of doctor visit may include a blood pressure check, weight check, blood sugar levels, cholesterol screening, vitamin deficiency and more. The doctor may also request other routine tests such as a colonoscopy, mammogram or pap smear for people of a certain age or gender.

Participate in the “I Stay Strong” Campaign

One of the ways that Chronic Disease Awareness Day seeks to improve the public understanding of chronic disease is by hosting a social media campaign. Individuals who have a chronic disease can participate in the campaign by determining what is their most important reason to stay strong.

For instance, I stay strong for: “my family”, “my future”, “my body” or some other reason. That short phrase can be written on the palm of the hand and then snap a photo that includes both your face and hand. Post the photo on social media outlets like Instagram or Facebook, use the hashtag and tag three or more friends for the possibility of getting a mention from the Chronic Disease Day website. 

Other important events to celebrate around the year in relationship to Chronic Disease Awareness Day include World Health Day and National Public Health Week both held in April,  as well as National Obesity Awareness Week in January.