L1: Chronic Diseases Flashcards
World Health Organization (WHO) definition of chronic diseases
long-lasting diseases that progress slowly
Explain the features of chronic diseases
- last for 3 months or more
- progress slowly
- caused by multiple risk factors
- cannot be cured through medical interventions
- They require periodic monitoring and supportive care to reduce the severity of the disease and maximize the individual’s function and responsibility in self-care
What are Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) ?
diseases that are not caused by an infectious agent but result from: genetic predispositions, lifestyle factors, or environmental exposures.
Describe the significance of chronic diseases in global health
Chronic diseases are the leading cause of premature death globally, accounting for 41 million deaths each year, which is 74% of all deaths
Additionally, they disproportionately affect low-income populations, exacerbating health inequities.
There is a need for social services and specialized rehabilitation centers.
How do chronic diseases impact healthcare systems?
Chronic diseases impact economic stability and healthcare systems worldwide. They often require long-term management, leading to increased healthcare costs and resource allocation.
What are the top four causes of deaths from non-communicable diseases according to WHO?
- cardiovascular diseases
- cancers
- respiratory diseases
- diabetes
Which types of chronic diseases are among the leading causes of disability worldwide?
Musculoskeletal diseases, rheumatic diseases, strokes, diabetes-related kidney failure, blindness, and leg and foot amputations
What factors have contributed to the significant increase in chronic diseases in recent years?
- A decrease in infectious diseases,
- Increased life expectancy and aging populations,
- Industrialization,
- Environmental pollution,
- Increased individual stress,
- Rise in sedentary lifestyles,
- Changes in dietary patterns,
- Increased consumption of addictive substances like tobacco, etc.
Explain the importance of understanding chronic diseases for healthcare providers
Nurses must understand and recognize chronic diseases to provide effective care, manage caregivers, and identify the needs of the entire group.
Characteristics of Chronic Diseases
- begin in middle age, last a lifetime, and usually cannot be fully cured
- Multiple factors can play a role in the development of the disease.
- The extent and duration of a person’s exposure to these factors are important, and the time between exposure and the onset of the disease can be very long
- Chronic diseases can also lead to other chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes may cause neurological and renal disorders or blindness)
- chronic diseases tend to worsen with relapses
How do chronic diseases typically progress over time?
Although periods of improvement may occur, chronic diseases tend to worsen with relapses, requiring individuals to undergo a learning process to manage symptoms and associated physiological and social issues that may arise as a result
Effects of chronic disease on the family of the patient
The family’s adaptation to a changing lifestyle, reduction in social activities, economic difficulties during the treatment process, challenges in disease management, and changing roles can lead to stress and burnout in family relationships.
Importance of compliance with treatment for controlling the disease
Chronic diseases require individuals to follow certain rules and develop a specific lifestyle (e.g., integrating prescribed diets and exercises for conditions like diabetes and hypertension).
Non-compliance with treatment:
- increases the risk and severity of complications, and
- accelerates the progression of the disease.
Effect of chronic diseases on healthcare workers
Since chronic diseases demand long-term treatment and care, this can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and burnout among healthcare workers.
4 behavioural risk factors and their chronic consequences
- tobacco use
- physical inactivity
- unhealthy diet
- harmful use of alcohol
The consequences of these behaviours:
- Metabolic / Physiological Changes
- Increased Blood Pressure
- Excess Weight / Obesity
- Hyperglycemia and Hyperlipidemia