The Burden of Chronic Disease in Maryland
In Maryland, chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes , and hypertension are the leading cause of death, disability, and health care costs. In 2007, Medicaid alone spent over $550 million dollars on chronic diseases. Approximately $196.3 Million was spent on hypertension alone, followed by diabetes at $157 Million.
Hypertension
- Defined as high blood pressure, 140/90 mmHg or higher
- Estimated 1 in 3 Maryland adults has hypertension
- Known as the “silent killer” as those with hypertension often have no signs or symptoms
- Disproportionately affects the African American population
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Diabetes
- Defined as a disease that occurs when your blood glucose or sugar is too high
- Three types: Type 1, Type 2 (most common), and gestational
- Estimated 10.2% or 1 in 2 Maryland adults have diabetes
- Diabetes or Prediabetes are serious conditions that can lead to heart disease and stroke, vision loss, amputations, and kidney disease
- African Americans are almost twice as likely to have diabetes as non-Hispanic whites
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