Chronic Disease

Older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. This page provides resources for people living with chronic disease during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Obesity and Chronic Disease

Obesity and chronic disease place individuals with COVID-19 at a higher risk for complications. ADPH has existing programs that may help lessen the impact of COVID-19 if diagnosed with it. These programs are offered statewide and listed in this Obesity and Chronic Disease Flyer.

How can people with chronic disease protect themselves from COVID-19?

Visit Alabama Chronic Disease Resource Directory for a list of places that offer support.

Making healthier choices every day can help people prevent and improve their chronic disease, as well as their well-being overall. The National Association of Chronic Disease Directors has developed tips and information that you can download.

Alabama Department of Public Health Bureau of Prevention, Promotion and Support created a Healthy at Home Flyer with resources for people living with chronic disease during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Being Active

Exercise is a great way to unplug from the constant news coverage of the COVID-19 outbreak. The National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability (NCHPAD) has created a home workout playlist to fit a variety of activity levels: visit Home Workouts.

Healthy Eating

Healthy eating is important to overall wellness and can aid in immune support. Choose My Plate has food planning tips. Another great resource for healthy eating and keeping food safe is Eat Right.

Quit Smoking

Smoking has a range of adverse health effects. Tobacco users can receive free help by contacting the Alabama Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

Asthma

People with moderate to severe asthma may be at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19. COVID-19 can affect your respiratory tract (nose, throat, lungs), cause an asthma attack, and possibly lead to pneumonia and acute respiratory disease. The Centers for Disease Control offers guidance for people with moderate to severe asthma.

Several myths about asthma and COPD management that have been circulating in response to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The American Lung Association busts those myths and shares the facts bout asthma and COPD management.

Healthy Coping

The COVID-19 pandemic presents new challenges, and sometimes, more stress. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides a free and confidential service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The number is 1-800-273-TALK.

Cancer Patients

The American Society of Clinical Oncology and the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship have collaborated to provide information about how coronavirus could potentially affect the health of people diagnosed with cancer. Visit Common Questions about COVID-19 and Cancer.

Diabetes

People living with diabetes, particularly those struggling with blood sugar management, may be at higher risk for more serious complications from COVID-19. The American Diabetes Association and Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists have a list of frequently asked questions.

Heart Disease

People with heart disease, stroke survivors, caregivers, and others who may face increased health risks during the COVID-19 pandemic can get useful information from the American Heart Association.

Kidney Patients

The National Kidney Foundation has guidance for kidney patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.