America is a sick nation. In fact, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), in 2014 alone, Americans were prescribed over 3.2 billion medications at their doctor’s office and utilized over 329.2 million medications in hospital settings. And, in that same year, over 75% of all doctor visits concluded with a prescription for medical treatment. That’s a lot of medication for sickness. And, it’s a lot of money to have to fork over for medical expenses every month. Fortunately, learning more about common diseases and conditions which affect American citizens can help to also identify more effective ways of paying for these medications.

Heart Disease: America’s #1 Killer

Cardiovascular diseases are not only the most commonly diagnosed diseases in our nation or the most common diseases to lead to fatality, but they are the number one cause of death in general. That means compared to cancer, car accidents, and even peacefully dying of old age; heart disease takes more lives. There are many different conditions that are characterized as cardiovascular diseases. Essentially, the cardiovascular system includes organs which carry blood to and from the heart. So, diseases which are characterized as cardiovascular conditions include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart failure, heart attack, ischemic stroke, arrhythmia, and heart valve issues.

Respiratory Diseases and Conditions

Obviously, breathing is important to our health. But, unfortunately, respiratory diseases and conditions account for many of the reasons Americans may need prescription treatment. One of the most common respiratory conditions, which affects 1 in 12 individuals (12 million), is asthma. This life-lasting disease costed Americans over $56 billion in treatment, medical, and funeral costs in the year 2007 alone. Other respiratory diseases and conditions include obstructive lung disease, bronchitis, pneumonia, pulmonary fibrosis, respiratory tract infection, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Musculoskeletal System Diseases and Conditions

This category of diseases and conditions includes the number one cause of disability–arthritis. According to the CDC, over 54 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with some type of arthritis. This condition, along with other musculoskeletal issues, accounts for many reasons why individuals may experience symptoms of chronic pain. Other musculoskeletal diseases and conditions include gout, osteoporosis, and osteopenia.

The Prevalence of Mental Illness Diagnoses in America

Each year, the amount of diagnosed individuals with mental illness grows in this country. While the stigma of these conditions may keep many individuals from getting the medical help they need and deserve, one in every five adults living in the United States has been diagnosed with a mental illness. These conditions include generalized anxiety disorder, chronic depression, post traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, phobias, and others.

Commonly Diagnosed Skin Diseases and Conditions

While skin diseases may not be as severe in terms of fatality, a large number of prescription medications are utilized to help those diagnosed with skin diseases and conditions yearly. Conditions which usually require the use of prescription medications, whether oral or topical, may include acne, dermatitis, noncancerous and cancerous growths, warts, ringworm, herpes, psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema.  

Common Digestive Conditions and Diseases

The digestive system is responsible for breaking down nutrients in food so that we can have the energy we need to function. So, for those with digestive system conditions and diseases, treatment can keep digestive organs performing their daily tasks and also help to prevent debilitating side effects. Common digestive disorders which require prescription treatments include irritable bowel syndrome, pancreatitis, heartburn, indigestion, and gastrointestinal disease.

Paying for Prescription Treatment for Common Conditions and Diseases

Being diagnosed with a common disease or condition is no easy pill to swallow. Adding the gouged and inflated prices of medications to treat these conditions and diseases on top of the diagnosis makes it even worse. Fortunately, there is something people who need treatment for common conditions can do to help reduce the cost of prescriptions. At Advocate My Meds, we offer a service with utilizes over 700 patient assistance programs utilized to discount or cover the cost of prescription medications. To find if you qualify to start receiving discounts or even full coverage of your medications, please visit our website or give us a call today at 877-596-1604.