What Are Chronic Conditions?
Chronic conditions are long-lasting diseases that cannot be cured, but can be controlled — with lifestyle changes, medications or both. Chronic conditions, which include arthritis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes and heart disease, are the leading cause of death and disability in the U.S.
What You Can Do
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are four modifiable risk factors that are to blame for much of the illness, suffering and even premature death associated with premature diseases. These four risk factors are:
- Lack of physical activity
- Unhealthy diet
- Tobacco use
- Excessive alcohol consumption
By changing your lifestyle — getting more exercise, eating healthier foods, giving up tobacco and reducing alcohol consumption — you can help control the symptoms of (or even prevent) various chronic diseases.
Why Parrish Medical Center
Because lifestyle changes are critical to managing chronic conditions, Parrish Medical Center (PMC) has a number of programs that focus on assessing behaviors and results, changing modifiable risk behaviors, promoting early detection through awareness of symptoms, and establishing proven health self-management skills. These programs include:
- The Diabetes Self-Management Program, which is accredited by The Joint Commission and the American Diabetes Association.
- The Parrish Health & Fitness Center, which offers one-on-one wellness coaching for people with chronic conditions. A certified wellness coach will develop a tailored, personalized wellness plan and be there every step of the way to encourage and motivate for success.
- PMC’s Center for Lifelong Health, which, in partnership with the Florida Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, offers a free six-week self-management workshop called “Living Healthy Workshop” for people living with chronic conditions. Participants receive practical advice and support, along with help in setting goals and creating a healthy-living action plan while they learn about new treatment choices.
Manage Chronic Disease Through Fitness
Visit the Parrish Health & Fitness Center online, or call us at 321-268-6200 or go online to learn about membership and classes.
Patient Education Downloads
Cardiac/LowSodium/Diabetic Menu | Download PDF