A chronic condition is a health condition or disease that lasts for a long time, typically defined as lasting one year or more, and often requires ongoing medical attention or limits daily activities

. It is usually persistent or long-lasting in its effects, often lasting more than three months, and may not be fully curable

. Key characteristics of chronic conditions include:

• Long duration and persistence over time
• Complex causes and multiple risk factors
• Functional impairment or disability
• Often requiring continuous management rather than a cure
• May have periods of remission and relapse

Common examples of chronic conditions include diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cancer, and autoimmune diseases

. These conditions are a leading cause of illness, disability, and death worldwide and contribute significantly to healthcare costs

. Chronic diseases are often non-communicable, meaning they are not passed from person to person, although some chronic conditions like HIV/AIDS are caused by transmissible infections

. They typically develop slowly and can be managed but not always cured, requiring ongoing treatment and lifestyle adjustments

. In summary, a chronic condition is a long-lasting health issue that requires ongoing care and management, often impacting a person's quality of life over an extended period