Which type of illness is characterized as long-term and not expected to be cured?

A chronic illness is defined as a health condition that persists over an extended period, often for the rest of a person's life, and is typically not expected to be fully cured. These illnesses often require long-term management and can include conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma. Unlike acute illnesses, which have a sudden onset and are generally short-lived, chronic illnesses can be ongoing, leading to various stages of management and treatment focused on maintaining quality of life. A key aspect of chronic illnesses is that while they can sometimes be managed or treated, they are not completely resolved, distinguishing them from other types of illnesses.

Short-term illnesses refer to conditions that resolve quickly, acute illnesses arise suddenly but are usually expected to improve in a short timeframe, and progressive illnesses are characterized by a gradual worsening of condition but can overlap with chronic conditions. Therefore, chronic illness stands out as the category that specifically implies a long-term, manageable condition without the expectation of cure.