Chronic diseases: A persistent challenge and promising solutions

Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity, account for 70 % of healthcare costs in Canada. As their prevalence increases with the aging of the population, they require an integrated strategy combining prevention, technological innovation and equitable access to care.

Prevention: a key to health and the economy

Prevention remains the most effective approach to reducing the impact of chronic diseases. A national diabetes campaign led by Diabète Québec has reduced cases of type 2 diabetes by 8 % between 2018 and 2022. Every dollar invested in prevention generates savings of 3 $ in curative care, according to Health Canada.

Innovative management with connected devices

Wearable technologies such as smart glucose meters and heart rate monitors are transforming chronic disease management. For example, a study by the Canadian Foundation for Healthcare Improvement showed that these devices reduced diabetes-related hospitalizations by 25 % in three years.

Unequal access: a major challenge

Despite progress, populations in rural areas or from disadvantaged backgrounds have limited access to care and innovative technologies. In Canada, only 58 % of regional patients access a specialist within the recommended timeframe, compared with 82 % in urban areas, according to CIHI.

Advances in biotechnology

Cell therapies such as CAR-T are revolutionizing the treatment of cancers and rare diseases. However, their high cost (up to 500,000 $ per patient) underlines the need for public policies to guarantee access to these treatments.

Conclusion:

Combating chronic disease requires massive investment in prevention, appropriate technological solutions and the political will to reduce inequalities. With a concerted strategy, Canada can become a world leader in chronic disease management.