The fast-acting, incurable illnesses that occasionally make headlines come to mind when people think of the worst diseases in the world. However, a lot of these diseases don’t fall into the top 10 killers in the globe. Worldwide, an estimated 56.4 million individuals died in 2015, and 68 percent of those deaths were brought on by slowly progressing illnesses.
The fact that many of the worst illnesses are largely avoidable may be even more shocking. Where a person lives, their access to preventative care, and the standard of their healthcare are examples of non-preventable variables. Each of these influences risk. However, there are still measures that everyone may take to reduce their risk.
1. Ischemic heart disease, or coronary artery disease
Coronary artery disease is the worst illness in the world (CAD). CAD, also known as ischemic heart disease, develops when the blood arteries that provide oxygen-rich blood to the heart constrict. Arrhythmias, heart failure, and chest discomfort can result from untreated CAD.
Impact of CAD across the world
Mortality rates have decreased in several European nations and the United States, despite the fact that it is still the main cause of death. This could be the result of improved public health knowledge, healthcare accessibility, and preventative measures. However, the mortality rates of CAD are rising in many emerging countries. A growing life expectancy, socioeconomic developments, and risk factors from one’s lifestyle all contribute to this growth.
Risk factors and prevention
Risk factors for CAD include:
- high blood pressure
- high cholesterol
- smoking
- family history of CAD
- diabetes
- being overweight
If you have one or more of these risk factors, see your doctor.
With the help of medicine and by keeping your heart healthy, you may avoid developing CAD. You can take the following actions to lessen your risk:
- exercising regularly
- maintaining a healthy weight
- eating a balanced diet that’s low in sodium and high in fruits and vegetables
- avoiding smoking
- drinking only in moderation
2. Stroke
When a brain artery is stopped or leaky, a stroke happens. Within minutes, the brain cells start to die as a result of the lack of oxygen. You may experience abrupt numbness, disorientation, or difficulty walking and seeing during a stroke. A stroke can result in long-term impairment if it is not addressed.
In actuality, strokes are the main factor in long-term impairments. Following a stroke, those who receive treatment within three hours are less likely to develop problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source, 93% of respondents were aware that abrupt numbness on one side was an indication of a stroke. However, just 38% of people were aware of every sign that would make them seek emergency treatment.
Risk factors and prevention
Risk factors for stroke include:
- high blood pressure
- family history of stroke
- smoking, especially when combined with oral contraceptives
- being African-American
- being female
With the help of medicine, lifestyle modifications, and preventative treatment, several risk factors for stroke can be decreased. Generally speaking, maintaining excellent health helps reduce risk.
Controlling high blood pressure with medication or surgery is one way to avoid strokes. You should also maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes frequent exercise and a low-sodium diet. Avoid smoking, and only consume alcohol in moderation as both behaviors raise your chance of having a stroke.
3. Lower respiratory infections
An infection in your lungs and airways is referred to as a lower respiratory infection. It could result from:
- influenza, or the flu
- pneumonia
- bronchitis
- tuberculosis
Lower respiratory infections are frequently brought on by viruses. Bacteria may also be to blame. The primary sign of a lower respiratory infection is coughing. Additionally, you can have chest tightness, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Lower respiratory infections that go untreated can cause mortality and breathing problems.
Impact of lower respiratory infections around the world
Risk factors and prevention
Lower respiratory infections are at risk for:
- the flu
- poor air quality or frequent exposure to lung irritants
- smoking
- a weak immune system
- crowded childcare settings, which mainly affects infants
- asthma
- HIV
Getting the flu vaccination each year is one of the strongest preventative steps you can take against lower respiratory illnesses. Pneumonia vaccines are also available for those who are most at risk. To prevent the spread of bacteria, wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before touching your face or preparing food. If you have a respiratory illness, stay at home and relax until you feel better since rest speeds up recovery.
4. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Breathing becomes difficult as a result of the long-term, progressive lung condition known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are examples of COPD. Worldwide, there were around 64 million persons with COPD in 2004Trusted Source.
Impact of COPD around the world
Risk factors and prevention
COPD risk factors include:
- smoking or secondhand smoke
- lung irritants like chemical fumes
- family history, with the AATD gene being linked to COPD
- history of respiratory infections as a child
The course of COPD can be slowed down with treatment, but there is no known cure. Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke and other lung irritants are the greatest methods to stave against COPD. Getting therapy as soon as you can if you have any COPD symptoms improves your outlook.
5. Trachea, bronchus, and lung cancers
Among respiratory malignancies include those of the lungs, trachea, larynx, and bronchi. Smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, and chemicals in the environment are the primary culprits. However, domestic pollutants like mold and gasoline also have a role.
Impact of respiratory cancers around the world
According to a 2015 research, respiratory cancer causes around 4 million deaths per year. Researchers predict that smoking and pollution will cause an 81–100% increase in respiratory malignancies in emerging nations. India is just one of several Asian nations that continue to cook using coal. For men and women, solid fuel emissions are responsible for 17% and 22% of lung cancer fatalities, respectively.
Risk factors and prevention
Anyone can get trachea, bronchus, or lung cancer, although those with a history of smoking or tobacco use are more prone to do so. Family history and exposure to environmental variables, such as diesel fumes, are additional risk factors for these tumors.
It is unknown if there is anything else that can be done to prevent lung cancers outside avoiding fumes and tobacco products. However, early discovery might enhance your prognosis and lessen respiratory cancer symptoms.
6. Diabetes mellitus
A collection of illnesses known as diabetes impair the usage and synthesis of insulin. Insulin cannot be made by the pancreas in type 1 diabetes. There is no known cause. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas either produces insufficient amounts of insulin or insulin cannot be used properly. Numerous things, such as a bad diet, inactivity, and being overweight, can lead to type 2 diabetes.
Impact of diabetes around the world
People in low- to middle-income nations are more likely to pass away from diabetes-related illnesses.
Risk factors and prevention
Risk factors for diabetes include:
- excess body weight
- high blood pressure
- older age
- not exercising regularly
- an unhealthy diet
Although diabetes cannot always be prevented, the intensity of the symptoms can be managed by engaging in regular exercise and eating a healthy diet. Increasing the fiber in your diet might aid with blood sugar management.
7. Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias
You might imagine a loss of memory when you think of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, but you might not see a loss of life. Alzheimer’s disease is a chronic condition that progressively impairs memory and other brain processes. These consist of typical conduct, thinking, and reasoning.
The most prevalent kind of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which accounts for 60 to 80 percent of all instances of dementia. Beginning with minor memory issues, difficulties recalling details, and lapses in remembrance, the condition. But if the illness worsens over time, you can lose the ability to recall lengthy periods of time. According to a 2014 study, there may be more fatalities from Alzheimer’s in the United States than was previously thought.
Risk factors and prevention
Alzheimer’s disease risk factors include:
- being older than 65
- a family history of the disease
- inheriting genes for the disease from your parents
- existing mild cognitive impairment
- Down syndrome
- unhealthy lifestyle
- being female
- previous head trauma
- being isolated from a society or exhibiting inadequate social participation over a lengthy period of time
Alzheimer’s disease cannot presently be prevented. Why some people acquire it and others do not is a mystery to researchers. They are attempting to comprehend this while also looking for preventative measures.
A heart-healthy diet is one factor that can help lower your risk of the illness. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, low in meat and dairy products that are saturated in fat, and high in sources of healthy fats like nuts, olive oil, and lean fish may not only help you lower your risk of heart disease but also shield your brain from Alzheimer’s disease.
8. Dehydration due to diarrheal diseases
When you pass three or more loose stools in a day, you have diarrhea. Your body loses too much salt and water if diarrhea persists for more than a few days. Dehydration results from this, and this can be fatal. The most common causes of diarrhea are intestinal viruses or bacteria that are spread by tainted water or food. It is especially prevalent in underdeveloped countries with subpar hygienic conditions.
Impact of diarrheal diseases around the world
The second leading cause of mortality in children under the age of five is diarrheal illness (Trusted Source). Each year, diarrheal illnesses claim the lives of almost 760,000 kids.
Risk factors and prevention
Risk factors for diarrheal diseases include:
- living in an area with poor sanitary conditions
- no access to clean water
- age, with children having the highest risk of having severe diarrheal illness symptoms
- malnourishment
- a weakened immune system
The greatest way to avoid disease, in UNICEF’s opinion, is to maintain proper cleanliness. Effective handwashing practices can cut the occurrence of diarrheal illnesses by 40%. Additionally, access to early medical assistance, enhanced sanitation, and higher-quality water can all aid in the prevention of diarrheal illnesses.
9. Tuberculosis
The bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis is what causes the lung disease known as tuberculosis (TB). Even though some strains are resistant to common medications, it is a curable airborne bacteria. One of the leading causes of mortality among HIV-positive individuals is TB. TB is to blame for about 35%Trusted Source of HIV-related fatalities.
Impact of TB around the world
Since 2000, there have been a total of 1.5 percent fewer cases of TB. By 2030, TB should be eradicated.
Risk factors and prevention
Risk factors for tuberculosis include:
- diabetes
- HIV infection
- a lower body weight
- proximity to others with TB
- frequent consumption of immunosuppressive medicines, such as corticosteroids,
Getting the BCG vaccination is the greatest way to prevent tuberculosis (TB). Children frequently receive this. You can begin using a drug for treating TB called chemoprophylaxis if you believe you have been exposed to the disease-causing germs.
10. Cirrhosis
The liver has been damaged and scarred over a lengthy period of time, leading to cirrhosis. The harm might be the outcome of a renal disorder or could be brought on by hepatitis and prolonged drinking, among other things. Healthy blood enters your body after your liver has removed any hazardous elements from your blood. Scar tissue develops as drugs harm the liver. The liver must work harder to function correctly as more scar tissue accumulates. The liver could eventually quit functioning.
Risk factors and prevention
Risk factors for cirrhosis include:
- chronic alcohol use
- fat accumulation around the liver (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease)
- chronic viral hepatitis
Avoid engaging in activities that might harm your liver to help stave against cirrhosis. Avoiding alcohol can help you avoid harm because it is one of the main causes of cirrhosis over a long period of time. Similarly, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease can be prevented by consuming a balanced diet low in fat and sugar and high in fruits and vegetables. Last but not least, you may lessen your chance of getting viral hepatitis by using protection during sex and by not sharing anything that might have been in contact with blood. This includes toothbrushes, razors, and other items.
The takeaway
Mortality from less serious disorders have dropped while deaths from other diseases have climbed. The prevalence of disorders including CAD, stroke, and heart disease naturally rises as a result of several variables, such as an extended life duration. However, a lot of the illnesses on this list are both curable and preventive. We could observe a decline in the mortality rates from these diseases as medicine develops more and preventative awareness rises.
Living a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and excellent eating is a great way to reduce your chances of developing any of these disorders. Moderate drinking and no smoking are also beneficial. Maintaining adequate hand hygiene can help prevent or lower your risk of bacterial or viral diseases.