There are so many different types of diseases that come and go. So, just what makes some diseases more common than others?
In this blog post, you’ll find out 7 of the most common ones. They’re not all life-threatening but they’re still important to be aware of!
1. Cancer
Cancer is the most common disease on the planet, and it’s estimated that one in six people will develop cancer at some point in their lives. The good news is that there are many different types of cancer, and each has a different treatment plan that can provide relief from the symptoms.
Cancer can occur anywhere in the body, but it most frequently affects the skin, lungs, prostate, and blood vessels. Symptoms may include a change in eating habits or mood, increased thirst or urination, fatigue, and chest pain. If left untreated, cancer can spread to other parts of the body and cause death.
There are many different types of cancer and each requires a unique treatment plan. For example, brain cancer could be treated with Gamma Knife Radiosurgery (you can read more about it here) whereas breast cancer may be treated with surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these methods.
2. Diabetes
Over 308 million people are living with diabetes worldwide, and that number is projected to reach 592 million by 2040. Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body uses energy.
The most common type of diabetes is type 2, which accounts for almost 90% of all cases. With type 2 diabetes, the body can’t produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. This can lead to high blood sugar levels and eventually health problems such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, and nerve damage.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to managing diabetes. But there are some key steps you can take to help keep your blood sugar under control.
Being overweight or obese raises your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. If you have prediabetes, losing weight can help improve your chances of keeping the condition under control.
A balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables is essential for people with diabetes. This is because it helps keep blood sugar levels in check. In addition to eating healthy foods, make sure to avoid sugary drinks and processed foods, which can spike your blood sugar levels.
Exercise has also been shown to improve blood sugar control in people with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Just as importantly, exercise may also reduce the risk of other conditions associated with obesity such as heart disease and stroke.
3. COPD
According to the World Health Organization, COPD is the leading cause of death worldwide. It’s also the most common chronic lung disease.
COPD is caused by a long-term, reversible decline in the ability of the lungs to breathe adequately. The most common symptoms are difficulty breathing and coughing. COPD can progress to more serious conditions, including emphysema and bronchitis.
There is no cure for COPD, but there are treatments that can help improve symptoms. Treatment goals include reducing exposure to pollutants and improving airflow in the lungs. People might have to stay at home longer, and in serious cases, require a dedicated caregiver from care for family or a similar agency. Some treatments also include exercising regularly, supervised by a certified caregiver. Aerobic exercise helps improve airflow and reduce inflammation in the airways.
Another would be to take over-the-counter medications. Many medications available over the counter help improve airflow and reduce inflammation in the airways. These include decongestants, cough suppressants, and asthma medications.
Lastly, by using oxygen therapy. Oxygen therapy helps improve airflow in patients with severe COPD who cannot take medications or exercise effectively.
4. Liver Disease
Liver disease is a major global health problem. It affects an estimated 1.5 billion people globally and results in over 1 million deaths each year.
The most common liver diseases are cirrhosis and hepatitis C. These account for up to 80% of all liver disease cases. There are also many other less common but serious liver diseases, such as hepatitis B and D, alcoholic liver disease, and primary biliary cirrhosis.
Liver disease can arise from many different causes. These include alcohol abuse, viral hepatitis infections (especially hepatitis C), autoimmune diseases (such as lupus), and primary biliary cirrhosis. In most cases, however, the cause is unknown. To stay ahead of the problem, it’s always a good idea to regularly get screened at a center for diagnostic imaging in Sparta, NJ, or in your area so that any sort of anomalies or illnesses connected to the liver can be caught in the early stages and treated accordingly.
5. Brain Aneurysms and Strokes
Brain aneurysms and strokes are the two most common diseases on the planet. They are also the leading cause of death in people under 60 years old.
A brain aneurysm is a bulging or swelling in a blood vessel that passes through the brain. A stroke is when this blood vessel ruptures, causing damage to the surrounding brain tissue.
There are several risk factors for both brain aneurysms and strokes. These include smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and age (over 55 years old). Some people are simply more likely to experience one of these diseases than others.
6. Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints. The disease is caused by an overactive immune system that attacks the body’s tissues.
Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Rheumatoid arthritis can be debilitating and can lead to permanent damage to the joints. There is no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis. But treatments include medications, surgery, and physical therapy.
7. Hypertension and Heart Attacks
Hypertension is a common condition that affects blood pressure and can lead to heart attacks. There are many causes of hypertension, including obesity, diabetes, genetics, and environmental factors.
There are several ways to reduce your risk of developing hypertension or having a heart attack. If you’re overweight or obese, make sure to lose weight through diet and exercise. Additionally, regular check-ups with cardiologists and medical provider in New Jersey, or in your city can play a crucial role in monitoring your heart health and identifying any potential risk factors early on. By seeking guidance and support from experienced medical professionals, you can take proactive steps towards maintaining a healthy heart and preventing cardiovascular issues in the future. Remember, prevention is key, and working with knowledgeable healthcare experts can help you lead a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol excessively, and eating excessive amounts of sodium (salt). Exercise regularly and give your body enough rest – even if you don’t feel like it. Maintain a healthy balance between stress and relaxation in your life.