Chronic disease management and prevention

Half of all adults in the United States have at least one chronic health condition, and 25 percent of all adults have two or more according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This is important because chronic diseases and conditions, like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke, are some of the most common and preventable health conditions we can have. They are also the main causes of death and disability in the United States.

Your daily health behaviors can have a substantial impact on risk factors associated with chronic health conditions. These behaviors include improving physical activity levels and nutrition and avoiding tobacco use and exposure. However, some residents may be unsure what this would look like or include in their daily lives.

CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT CLASSES

The Florida Department of Health in Marion County is dedicated to improving the health of Marion County residents with chronic diseases, and with the help of community partners, provides free chronic disease self-management and diabetes workshops to the community. These workshops emphasize how to better manage your lifestyle and adopt healthy behaviors by building self-confidence, introducing ways to cope with difficult emotions, and incorporating physical activity and nutrition into daily life to improve health, strength, flexibility, and endurance.

If you are interested in signing up for workshops or gaining more knowledge on chronic diseases and conditions, please contact Melissa Marino at 352-644-2624. 

Click here for more information on diabetes-specific classes.

For more information on chronic disease, please visit:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - About Chronic Diseases

Elder Options - Chronic Disease Self-Management Program