March 2007

New report: Healthy behaviors, screenings
lower chronic-disease risk

Eighty percent of Americans ages 65 and older who live with at least one chronic disease that could lead to premature death and disability can lower their risk by adopting healthier behaviors and getting recommended screenings, according to a new report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Merck Company Foundation.

The report, “The State of Aging and Health in America 2007,” addressed health status, health behaviors, preventive care and screening, and injuries of older Americans. It also documents progress made toward meeting the national Healthy People 2010 objectives for these indicators.

Nearly 95 percent of healthcare expenditures are spent on treating chronic health conditions among older adults, according to the report. Two demographic trends — aging baby boomers and increasing racial and ethnic diversity among older adults — will add to the challenges of addressing chronic diseases, the report concludes.

The report provides bold “Calls to Action” on critical issues for older adults, including oral health, environmental changes to facilitate physical activity, and increasing the use of potentially lifesaving preventive services, such as adult immunization and screening, to detect chronic diseases early in their most treatable stages. The report also includes a “Spotlight” on preventing falls, the leading cause of injury-related deaths and most common cause of nonfatal injuries among older adults.

Industry News from:
Chiropractic News from: