What is a disease characterized by a slow onset and long duration called?

A disease characterized by a slow onset and long duration is referred to as chronic. Chronic diseases typically develop gradually over time and can persist for months or even years. This distinguishes them from acute diseases, which manifest suddenly and are often of shorter duration.

Chronic conditions are often managed rather than cured, making ongoing treatment and lifestyle adjustments necessary for those affected. This long-term aspect can significantly impact a person's quality of life and may require continuous medical care and monitoring.

In contrast, acute diseases are characterized by rapid onset, often with severe symptoms but generally resolve in a short period. Subacute diseases fall between acute and chronic, showing a slower onset than acute conditions but not as prolonged as chronic ones. Terminal conditions refer to illnesses that are expected to lead to death in the near future, which does not align with the concept of long duration typically associated with chronic diseases.

Thus, the defining characteristics of chronic diseases highlight their slow progression and extended timeframe, making this the accurate choice.