Chronic diseases - such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, stroke, and arthritis - are the leading causes of disability and death in New York State and throughout the United States. More than 40% of New York adults suffer from a chronic disease, and chronic diseases are responsible for 23% of all hospitalizations in New York State. Six out of every 10 deaths in New York State are caused by chronic diseases. Heart disease and cancer account for over half of all deaths in New York State.
Although common and costly, many chronic diseases are also preventable. Many chronic diseases are linked to lifestyle choices that are within your own hands to change. Eating nutritious foods, becoming more physically active and avoiding tobacco can help keep you from developing many of these diseases and conditions. And, even if you already have diabetes, heart disease, arthritis or another chronic condition, eating more healthful food and getting more exercise, whether it's a brisk walk, a bike ride, a jog or a swim, can help you better manage your illness, avoid complications and prolong your life.
The Department of Health's Division of Chronic Disease Prevention implements innovative public health strategies across New York State to reduce the incidence and burden of chronic diseases and related conditions. Please see the Division of Chronic Disease Prevention Fact Sheet for more information about our work.
Chronic Diseases and Conditions
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease)
- Alzheimer's Disease and other Dementias
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Cancer
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Other Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Diabetes
- Eating Disorders
- Heart Disease
- Obesity
- Oral Health
- Osteoporosis
- Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) Syndrome
- Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) in Youth
- Tobacco Use and Related Conditions
Data Sources and Teaching Tools
Strategic Plans
- Prevention Agenda 2019-2024: Preventing Chronic Diseases Action Plan
- NYS 2018-2023 Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan
- Division of Chronic Disease Prevention’s Coordinated Chronic Disease Prevention Framework (PDF)
