A chronic condition is a health condition or disease that lasts for a long time, typically defined as lasting one year or more, and often requires ongoing medical attention or limits daily activities
. It is usually persistent or long-lasting in its effects, often lasting more than three months, and may not be fully curable
. Key characteristics of chronic conditions include:
- Long duration and persistence over time
- Complex causes and multiple risk factors
- Functional impairment or disability
- Often requiring continuous management rather than a cure
- May have periods of remission and relapse
Common examples of chronic conditions include diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cancer, and autoimmune diseases
. These conditions are a leading cause of illness, disability, and death worldwide and contribute significantly to healthcare costs
. Chronic diseases are often non-communicable, meaning they are not passed from person to person, although some chronic conditions like HIV/AIDS are caused by transmissible infections
. They typically develop slowly and can be managed but not always cured, requiring ongoing treatment and lifestyle adjustments
. In summary, a chronic condition is a long-lasting health issue that requires ongoing care and management, often impacting a person's quality of life over an extended period
