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Alternate description

Chronic Disease

In the U.S., 70 percent of all deaths are due to chronic disease. In Canada, the figure is 89 percent. Three conditions – cancer, heart disease and stroke – account for about half of these deaths. In combination with diabetes, arthritis and a few other conditions, these chronic diseases impair almost half of all adults in the two countries.

Although chronic diseases are among the most common, serious and costly health problems, they are also among the most preventable.

The leading causes of chronic diseases are:

  • Lack of physical acivity
  • Poor nutrition
  • Tobacco use
  • Excessive alcohol consumption

By modifying their risk factors, LIUNA members and their families can prevent or lessen the negative effects of certain chronic diseases. The LHSFNA has many publications that address behaviors which contribute greatly to chronic disease. Go to Fund’s online catalogue to view these and related topics. For more information, contact the Health Promotion Division at 202-628-5465.

Chronic Disease


Calming Inflammation Can Help Keep You Healthy (November, 2018)
LHSFNA Toolbox Talks Promote Safety, Health on the Job (July, 2018)
Suicide: The Silent Epidemic (July, 2018)
Carbon Monoxide: What You Need to Know (November, 2015)
Diving into Medical Surveillance in the Silica Rule (November, 2017)
New 9/11 Memorial Honors First Responders, Post-Attack Victims (September, 2018)
Risk of Coal Ash Exposure from Hurricane Flooding (November, 2018)
Lyme Disease Could Be Lurking in Your Lawn (June, 2017)
Chiropractic Care: Another Pill-Free Option in Pain Management (March, 2017)
Protect Your Hearing, Protect Your Heart (May, 2018)
Tips on Attending or Hosting Parties While in Recovery (December, 2017)
The Osteoporosis Myth: Men Don’t Need to Worry (March, 2015)
Thinking about Getting Inked? Follow These Tips First (August, 2016)
Preventing Opioid Addiction Starts with Preventing Pain (January, 2018)
Chronic Pain: Speaking Your Doctor’s Language (November, 2018)
Combating the Opioid Crisis Through Injury Prevention (April, 2019)
If You’re a Family Caregiver, Don’t Forget to Care for Yourself (February, 2019)
What We’re Learning About OSHA Enforcement of the Silica Rule in Construction (December, 2018)
A Summer of Challenges and Victories for Worker Safety and Health (August, 2019)
Skin Cancer: Blind to Your Skin Color (June, 2016)