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More than 1 in 4 people in Switzerland suffers chronic illness: report

Xinhua, August 21, 2015 Adjust font size:

Some 2.2 million people in Switzerland, representing over a quarter of the confederation's population, suffer from at least one chronic disease, while 20 percent of those aged 50 and above suffer from multiple chronic illnesses, the Swiss Health Observatory's (Obsan) National Health Report said Thursday.

These figures highlight the prevalence of chronic illnesses in Switzerland, amid statistics showing that 80 percent of the country's health budget went to patients suffering from chronic diseases in 2011.

According to Obsan's report, cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular problems, respiratory illnesses, depression and dementia top the list of the most common and fatal chronic diseases in Switzerland.

The Swiss Health Observatory reported that many of these non-communicable diseases are linked to certain lifestyle choices including smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, inadequate nutrition and lack of physical exercise, all of which can have a negative impact on health.

With estimations pointing towards a continued rise in the number of people suffering from chronic illnesses in the confederation, Obsan highlighted the importance of improving tailored approaches to patient care while promoting activities known to decrease the likelihood of contracting potentially fatal diseases later in life.

This includes encouraging physical exercise and increasing mobility, which is believed to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular complications, type 2 diabetes, as well as some forms of cancer.

According to Obsan, the mortality rate of a population group which walks on a regular basis is reduced by 10 to 20 percent, a figure which rises to 10 to 30 percent when the bicycle is frequently used.

While the report calls for a rethinking of certain of practices, it also lauds Switzerland's notable health record.

Considered one of the healthiest countries in the world, Swiss life expectancy for males reaches 81 years and 85 years for females, with trends showing that the confederation's population is not only living longer, but also living more time in good health. Endit