The Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has released a report titled Chronic Diseases in Montgomery County, MD 2010-2023 that outlines health outcomes in the county. As per the Montgomery County release, the report shows that Montgomery County exceeds state and national averages in many areas but also highlights disparities, particularly in communities of color that are more heavily affected by chronic illnesses.
County Executive Marc Elrich said the report provides a clear picture of progress and areas needing more work. He noted that non-Hispanic Black residents experience worse outcomes for conditions such as cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and diabetes.
The report found that five chronic diseases were among the top ten causes of death in Montgomery County between 2021 and 2023. These include heart disease, cancer, cerebrovascular disease, diabetes, and chronic lower respiratory disease.
Dr. Kisha Davis, County Health Officer, said in the release that the county’s growing diversity and aging population require ongoing monitoring and adjustments to health programs.
The report also noted disparities in late-stage cancer diagnoses: Asian/Pacific Islander residents had the highest percentage of late-stage diagnoses for lung and bronchus cancer, while Hispanic residents had the highest rate of late-stage prostate cancer diagnoses.
This new report follows the earlier DHHS publication, Health in Montgomery County, 2013-2022: A Surveillance Report on Population Health, and is intended to support evidence-based planning and policy.
The full Chronic Diseases in Montgomery County, MD 2010-2023 report is available on the Montgomery County website.
