When it comes to your health, knowledge is power. Understanding key facts about common conditions can help you make better decisions for your well-being. The conditions highlighted below — heart disease, cancer, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and asthma — are some of the most significant health concerns affecting Americans today.

While these statistics reflect serious challenges, they also reveal opportunities for prevention and management. With this knowledge in hand, you’ll be empowered to make smart decisions and grow healthy.

Heart Disease: America’s Top Health Concern 

Key statistics:

• Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, responsible for about 20% of total mortalities.
• Nearly half of all American adults (47%) have at least one of three key risk factors — high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or cigarette use.

Heart disease refers to several conditions affecting the heart, with coronary artery disease being most common. It develops when plaque builds up in arterial walls, restricting blood flow to the heart muscle.

To stay safe, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity every week. Regular exercise can lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol, and strengthen your heart. Schedule regular check-ups to monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. 

Cancer: Early Detection Matters

Key statistics:

• Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States.
• Approximately 40% of Americans will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetime.

Cancer involves abnormal cell growth that can invade or spread to other parts of the body. The most common types in the U.S. are breast, lung, prostate, and colorectal cancers. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Work with your care provider to schedule recommended cancer screenings based on your age, gender, and risk factors. In addition, avoid tobacco, limit alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy weight, and eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Hypertension: The Silent Killer

Key statistics:

• 47% of all American adults have hypertension, also known as high blood pressure.
• Of this group, only about 1 in 4 are addressing the condition effectively.

High blood pressure is often called the "silent killer" because it typically has no symptoms. It occurs when blood consistently exerts too much pressure against artery walls. If left uncontrolled, it can lead to heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.

In order to avoid or manage hypertension, reduce sodium intake to less than 2,300mg daily (about one teaspoon of salt), and follow the DASH diet. Because regular monitoring is essential, consider purchasing an at-home monitor.

Diabetes: Small Changes, Big Impact

Key statistics:

• 37.3 million Americans (11.3%) have diabetes, with 1 in 5 being unaware.
• An estimated 96 million American adults (38.1%) have prediabetes, with more than 80% not knowing.

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels, either because the body doesn't produce enough insulin (Type 1), or because it can't effectively use the insulin it produces (Type 2).

Even modest weight loss can prevent or delay Type 2 diabetes by up to 58% in high-risk individuals. Maintain regular physical activity and follow a balanced diet rich in fiber and low in refined carbohydrates. You can also ask your doctor about a Pre-Diabetes Risk Test.

High Cholesterol: Know Your Numbers

Key statistics:

• Nearly  94 million U.S. adults aged 20 or older have total cholesterol levels above 200 mg/dL (considered high).
• Each day, 47 million Americans take cholesterol medication, usually a statin, which has a powerful impact on keeping the heart healthy.

High cholesterol leads to fatty deposits in blood vessels, restricting blood flow and increasing risk of heart attack and stroke. There are no symptoms, so regular screening is essential.

By removing trans fats from your diet, and limiting saturated fats, you can keep your cholesterol in check. Focus on healthy fats found in olive oil, nuts, avocados, and fatty fish. You should also increase soluble fiber intake through foods like oats, beans, and fruits.

Asthma: Breathe Easy

Key statistics:

• Approximately 25 million Americans have asthma, including 5.1 million children.
• There were 939,000 emergency room visits with asthma as a primary diagnosis in 2021, excluding chronic obstructive asthma.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, causing wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing. While there's no cure, proper management can control symptoms and prevent attacks.

If you or a loved one are diagnosed with asthma, identify and avoid any triggers, such as allergens, tobacco smoke, air pollution, or physical activity. Use prescribed medications as directed, even when feeling well, and learn proper inhaler technique.

Taking Steps to Grow Healthy

These six health conditions don't exist in isolation. They often share common risk factors like diet, physical activity, stress levels, and tobacco use. Importantly, having one condition can often increase risk for another. 

The good news is that preventive actions can address multiple conditions simultaneously. This includes:

• Regular physical activity
• Balanced nutrition
• Adequate sleep
• Effective stress management
• Regular health screenings
• Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol

AltaMed Is Here to Help

On the journey to better health, you’re never alone. At AltaMed, our Health and Wellness Programs make it easier to manage chronic conditions, lose weight, and achieve your goals. With comprehensive services under one roof, you can access these programs, checkups, dental care, and so much more, all from a location in your neighborhood. Visit our Getting Started page or call (888) 499-9303 to learn more.