Chronic disease is the leading cause of illness, death, and disability in America. Many chronic diseases can be prevented or delayed.
End Chronic Disease works to bring prevention into everyday life through education and advocacy while expanding access for those at highest risk.
While genetics play a role in our health, they don’t tell the whole story. What we eat, how we move and sleep, our relationships and experiences, the places where we live, learn, work, and play, the environments we’re exposed to, and our access to quality care can all influence our health over time.
Prevention belongs in each of these places.
Chronic disease takes many forms, from heart disease and diabetes to autoimmune disease, cancer, neurodegenerative disease, chronic respiratory disease, and many others. It affects people of every age and background, and while genetics can play a role, many other factors can contribute to its development over time.
of U.S. adults live with
a chronic condition
of U.S. children live with
a chronic condition
of America’s health care spending is spent on chronic illness
Sources: Boersma P, et al. Preventing Chronic Disease, 2025 · Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Managing Chronic Health Conditions, 2024 · CDC, Fast Facts: Health and Economic Costs of Chronic Conditions, 2026.
We aim to shape an America where fewer people develop preventable chronic disease, where individuals are empowered to improve their health and lead change in their communities, and where every American has the opportunity to live a long and healthy life.
Our affiliated 501(c)(4) organization sponsored bipartisan legislation in California to bring evidence-based preventive health education into the state’s K–12 Health Education Framework, including nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management, screen use, environmental exposures, and other factors that can influence long-term health.
Learn MoreOur newsletter explores chronic disease risks, trends, and prevention efforts across the U.S., what they mean for you and your community, and how you can be part of the solution.
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Let’s shape a healthier future, together.
End Chronic Disease Institute, Inc. is a nonpartisan federally registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN #99-3548449.
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