What characteristic is NOT associated with chronic diseases?

The characteristic that is NOT associated with chronic diseases is that they do not have harmful consequences. Chronic diseases, by definition, are long-lasting conditions that usually cannot be cured but can be managed. They often lead to significant health complications and can severely impact an individual's quality of life.

For instance, diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and chronic respiratory diseases can cause various harmful consequences such as pain, reduced mobility, and increased risk of other health issues, including mental health problems. This makes it clear that chronic diseases typically come with a range of harmful effects rather than being benign or without consequences.

The other characteristics listed highlight common attributes of chronic diseases. They can indeed last a lifetime as they are often ongoing conditions. Additionally, many chronic diseases can be prevented through lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, although not all are preventable. Lastly, they do disrupt normal functioning, impacting daily activities and overall health.