The prevalence of multiple chronic conditions among working-age adults has been steadily increasing, according to recent Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services data. Individuals with MCCs are defined as having two or more concurrent chronic behavioral or physical health conditions, most commonly including hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, depression and obesity.
In 2017, the most recent year of available data, MCCs affect more than 60% of these individuals, disproportionately impacting low-wage workers and minorities. The greater prevalence of MCCs is likely due to a combination of factors, like healthcare access limitations, low health literacy and cultural beliefs and practices.
