Local & National Resources
Colorado
The Crisis
Chronic diseases are the leading cause of death and disability in Colorado. With more than 2 million Colorado residents suffering from one of the seven most common chronic diseases, the state has reached a chronic disease crisis.
The Implications
The Colorado chronic disease crisis is affecting both residents and state funding. Nearly a quarter of Colorado residents suffer from heart-related diseases, including obesity, hypertension and high cholesterol, and the numbers are rising.
And it doesn't just stop there. In addition to the profound effects of chronic disease on the people of Colorado, the state is experiencing profound financial effects. Chronic diseases cost the state billions of dollars -- total costs related to chronic disease, including direct expenditures (e.g., health care costs) and indirect costs (e.g., lost productivity) amount to $16.5 billion.
Advocate for Change
It doesn't have to be this way. Many chronic diseases could be prevented, delayed, or alleviated through simple lifestyle changes. Early detection and appropriate treatment of disease can also help to save lives and improve quality of life. Advocate for change now »
