Nearly 7 out of 10 Missourians who die each year will die of a chronic disease. Cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer are among the most common and costly, yet most preventable, of all health problems.

Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP)

CDSMP is an effective self-management education program for people with chronic health problems.  The program specifically addresses arthritis, diabetes, lung and heart disease, but teaches skills useful for managing a variety of chronic diseases.

Workshops are facilitated by two trained leaders, one or both of whom have a chronic disease themselves.  This program covers topic such as: techniques to deal with problems associated with chronic disease, appropriate exercise, appropriate use of medications, communicating effectively with family, friends, and health professionals, nutrition, and how to evaluate new treatments. 

Southwest Missouri has several upcoming Chronic Disease Self-Management Classes and Arthritis Self-Management classes scheduled.  All classes are FREE.  Click here to find a class near you.


Some ways to prevent these diseases include

Eating Smart

Moving More

Living Tobacco Free

Getting Regular Health Screenings

For more information on chronic disease and how to prevent them, go to "Live Like Your Life Depends On It"

For a guide to preventive service in your area, visit the "Community Guide", a free resource to programs and policies designed to improve health and prevent disease.

Click here to see our new diabetes page for more great resources. 

Missouri's Tobacco Control Exchange, your link to statewide efforts to reduce tobacco use and exposure. Read articles related to tobacco control and learn how you can get involved.

Click here for some information on the effects of second hand smoke and to watch a video showing how the heart and lungs are effected by cigarettes.

Click here to go the American Lung Association's new website detailing tobacco cessation benefits across the nation. 

Visit Tobacco Free Kids, to learn more about smoking and how it effects children, how the tobacco industry targets their products to children and what is being done to prevent them from lighting up.

Body and Mind

A site for young teens to learn about nutrition and physical activity. There is a game room, quizzes, activities and more.