What is chronic disease?
A chronic disease is a long-term health condition that can be treated, but not cured.
Affecting over 14.6 million Canadians, chronic disease can impact the physical and mental health of those living with them. A chronic disease requires ongoing treatment and management, which can amount to substantial out-of-pocket medical bills for those without health benefits.
According to the World Health Organization, there are 3 main risk factors for developing a chronic disease:
- Behavioural risks, like smoking or not doing regular exercise
- Metabolic risks, which can lead to increased risk of heart disease in particular
- Environmental risks, such as air pollution
Research has shown that women are at higher risk of being diagnosed with a chronic disease, especially in older age.
Chronic diseases don’t just affect the health and well-being of Canadians. They can also create financial burdens for those living with these diseases, their families and the healthcare system. From medical costs to indirect expenses such as lost productivity and reduced quality of life, the economic implications of chronic disease can be significant.
Common types of chronic disease
In 2021, the most common chronic diseases in Canada were:
- Obesity
- Arthritis
- High blood pressure
Other examples of chronic disease include:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Lung disease
- Cancer
Chronic diseases aren’t just physical, however. Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression and other mood disorders are also classified as chronic disease and are on the rise in Canada. Mood and anxiety disorders have risen from 2012 to 2022, and it’s now estimated that over 5 million Canadians live with a mental health disorder.
How chronic diseases are linked
Having 1 chronic disease can increase the risk of developing other chronic diseases. For example:
- Obesity is a significant risk factor for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers.
- Diabetics are more likely to develop hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
- Some critical illnesses can be associated with weight gain or skin disorders like atopic dermatitis or psoriasis.
- People living with chronic disease are at a higher risk of experiencing stress, anxiety and depression. People with obesity-related chronic diseases may experience negative body image, social stigma and reduced self-esteem, which can cause additional mental health challenges.
The financial cost of chronic disease
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, chronic diseases and other illnesses cost the Canadian economy $190 billion annually, including $122 billion in indirect income and productivity losses, and $68 billion in direct healthcare costs. To help manage their health conditions, many Canadians pay out-of-pocket for medications, devices and treatments, whether they have an employee benefits plan or not.
Supporting employees with chronic disease in the workplace
Millions of Canadians balance working with a chronic disease. While members don’t have to disclose their health conditions, plan sponsors have an opportunity to help members who might have this on-going health issue live better. This could include:
Offering a group benefits plan
Most group benefit plans provide paramedical services and drug coverage for several chronic diseases like diabetes, arthritis, stroke and others. They also provide coverage for some medical devices like breathing equipment, orthopedic equipment, mobility aids, hearing aids, diabetic supplies and other medical supplies.
Offering a wellness program
Wellness programs provide tools, resources and support that help employees work on their mental and physical health. These programs take a holistic approach to employee wellness, starting with prevention through to managing illness and disability and a return to work after an absence.
You may also want to consider offering flexible work hours to help employees attend medical appointments, as well as other ways to accommodate an employee with a chronic disease.