Research Hub
Adult Illness
What is an adult illness?
There are many illnesses or health problems that affect adults in the United States. Some illnesses are life-threatening and can occur without warning, such as a stroke or heart attack. Other illnesses such as lung disease or diabetes are also life-threatening. These diseases usually have symptoms. People can find out if they have the disease by talking to their doctor. Their doctor can help lengthen their life by prescribing medicines that can help.
What are the most serious adult illnesses?
While any health problem is serious, the ones that cause the most deaths are considered to be the most serious. In the United States, heart disease is the leading cause of death among adults, followed by cancer, stroke, lung disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.