A decade of improvement in areas of chronic disease. Where do we go from here?

Abstract

The last decade has seen significant progress in reduction of mortality rates from many chronic diseases on both a state and national level. Moreover, in general, Wisconsin has achieved levels below the United States for mortality. However, as suggested by Figures 1 and 2, preventive efforts in stroke and prostate cancer should become high priorities in this state. Additionally, it will be important to monitor the stabilization of death rates due to diabetes. Turning Point, anti-tobacco efforts by the Tobacco Control Board and the Thomas T. Melvin Program, and the upcoming Minority Health Report should reveal additional areas for DHFS and its statewide partners to address in the arena of chronic disease. Programs such as the Wisconsin Diabetes Control Program and the Wisconsin Well Woman Program will also continue to contribute significantly to other community and clinical efforts to control chronic diseases.