Atracare Hot Topic: DPH Releases 2024 Burden of Chronic Disease Report

Understanding the Chronic Disease Landscape in Delaware

The Delaware Division of Public Health’s (DPH) Physical Activity, Nutrition, and Obesity Prevention (PANO) Program has just released the 2024 Burden of Chronic Disease in Delaware report. This comprehensive report, published on June 28, 2024, provides a detailed overview of the current state of chronic diseases and related risk factors in Delaware. It updates and expands on the Chronic Disease in Delaware: Facts and Figures report from 2019, offering critical data and insights for decision-makers and stakeholders.

Chronic Diseases: A Major Health Concern

Chronic diseases are a significant health concern in Delaware, accounting for seven of the top 10 leading causes of death in the state. According to the report, tens of thousands of Delawareans live with chronic diseases, and 10% of residents have multiple chronic conditions. These diseases not only affect the quality of life but also cost Delaware billions of dollars annually in health-related expenses.

Key Findings from the Report

The report presents a comprehensive comparison of Delaware and the United States in terms of mortality, prevalence, and incidence of chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, vascular disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory disease, and diabetes. It also highlights important racial inequities related to chronic diseases and their risk factors in Delaware.

Heart Disease

• The prevalence of specific heart diseases has remained stable since 2011.
• The five-year age-adjusted mortality rate from heart disease decreased in Delaware and nationally between 2006-2010 and 2016-2020.

Stroke

• The prevalence of stroke in Delaware is stable and similar to the national median.
• The five-year age-adjusted stroke mortality rate in Delaware increased from 2006-2010 to 2016-2020 and remains higher than the national average.

Vascular Disease

• The five-year age-adjusted mortality rate from vascular disease remained stable in Delaware but decreased nationally.

Hypertension

• The prevalence of hypertension has not changed significantly from 2011 to 2021.
• The five-year age-adjusted hypertension mortality rate remained stable between 2006-2010 and 2016-2020 in both Delaware and the U.S. Delaware has a lower hypertension mortality rate compared to the national average.

Chronic Lower Respiratory Disease

• The mortality rate of chronic lower respiratory disease in Delaware is similar to the national rate but has declined from 2006-2010 to 2016-2020.

Diabetes

• The prevalence of diabetes among Delaware adults increased from 2011 to 2022.
• The five-year age-adjusted diabetes mortality rate is lower in Delaware than the national average and has remained stable from 2006-2010 to 2016-2020.
• Non-Hispanic Black Delaware adults have higher prevalence and mortality rates from diabetes compared to non-Hispanic White or Hispanic adults.

Addressing Health Inequities and Enhancing Prevention

“This report highlights the progress that Delaware has made in addressing chronic disease, while also emphasizing the work that still needs to be done,” said DPH Director Steven Blessing. “DPH is committed to addressing health inequities and enhancing our initiatives for chronic disease prevention and management.”

The report informs statewide efforts to reduce the impacts of chronic diseases and includes recommendations for further prevention and management strategies. It emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to improve the health and well-being of all Delaware residents.

Call to Action: The Best Time To Plant a Tree, and Get in Front of Your Health is Years Ago, or TODAY! 

Atracare is dedicated to supporting the health of the Southern Delaware community. Our affordable and premium healthcare services are designed to address and manage chronic diseases effectively. If you or a loved one is dealing with a chronic condition, visit one of our clinics for expert care and support. Schedule time to get a full blood panel and get insight into your health. 

For more detailed insights and to view the full report, visit the DPH website. Together, we can make a difference in reducing the burden of chronic diseases in Delaware.

Stay informed, stay healthy, and let’s work together to create a healthier Delaware!