Growing Number of Candidates Shine Spotlight on Chronic Disease
Sen. Obama is latest to recognize problem of chronic disease and contribute to the health care debate
WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 29, 2007) - The Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease is pleased that a growing number 2008 presidential contenders are shining a spotlight on the single biggest cause of death, disability, and health spending in the U.S. - chronic disease.
The health care proposal unveiled today by U.S. Senator Barack Obama (D-IL) recognizes the epidemic of chronic disease and includes ideas for helping Americans better manage it.
Chronic diseases are responsible for seven out of 10 deaths and 75 percent of every health care dollar spent in the U.S. These are conditions that, with proper early intervention, diet, and exercise, could be prevented, delayed, or minimized. More than 130 million Americans today have a chronic disease.
The PFCD commends each candidate who has contributed to the health care debate, especially those who recognize the dangers of chronic disease. We are confident that as other candidates look at our current system, they too will make chronic disease a key aspect of their health care agenda and that chronic disease will take its rightful place at the center of the debate.
About the Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease:
The Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease (PFCD) is a national coalition of patients, providers, community organizations, business and labor groups, and health policy experts committed to raising awareness of the number one cause of death, disability, and rising health care costs in the U.S.: chronic disease.
The PFCD's mission is to:
- Challenge policymakers - in particular, the 2008 presidential candidates - to make the issue of chronic disease a top priority and articulate how they will address the issue through their health care proposals
- Educate the public about chronic disease and potential solutions for individuals, communities, and the nation
- Mobilize Americans to call for change in how policymakers, governments, employers, health institutions, and other entities approach chronic disease
Leaders in the effort represent more than 50 leading organizations from across health care, business and labor including Aetna, American Academy of Family Physicians, Alliance for Aging Research, American Academy of Physician Assistants, American College of Nurse Practitioners, American College of Preventive Medicine, American Hospital Association, American Pharmacists Association Foundation, Disease Management Association of America, Kerr Drug, Integrated Benefits Institute, International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association, NAACP, Milken Institute, National Association of Manufacturers, National Medical Association, Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, Service Employees International Union, Sheet Metal Workers International Association, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and YMCA of the USA, among others.
Share It
