Diabetes Burden Grows in Vietnam
The prevalence of diabetes in Vietnam has nearly doubled in the past decade, with an estimated one in 20 adults affected. The number of people with pre-diabetes is also three times higher.
Diabetes is a growing concern in Vietnam, with its prevalence nearly doubling over the last ten years. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one in every 20 adults in Vietnam currently has diabetes. Additionally, the number of individuals with pre-diabetes is three times higher than those diagnosed with the condition.
Severe complications stemming from diabetes, such as foot ulcers, gangrene leading to amputations, cardiovascular diseases, blindness, and kidney failure, are common among patients. These complications are identified as major causes of death and disability within the country. In 2015 alone, approximately 53,458 deaths were attributed to diabetes in Vietnam.
The financial strain on families is significant, encompassing treatment costs, travel expenses to healthcare facilities, and lost productivity due to illness and prolonged hospital stays. According to the International Diabetes Federation, annual diabetes-related expenditures in Vietnam averaged $162.7 USD per patient in 2015, exceeding the average monthly salary.
Behavioral risk factors, including obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, unhealthy diets, and lack of physical activity, contribute to the rise in diabetes. While obesity is not yet widespread, it is an increasing trend, particularly among children. As Vietnam develops, urbanizes, and incomes rise, unhealthy dietary habits and sedentary lifestyles are expected to become more prevalent, further elevating diabetes risk.
Challenges in managing the disease include a lack of public awareness, leading to late diagnosis, with over 50% of diabetics reportedly unaware of their condition. Furthermore, weak cross-sectoral coordination hinders the creation of a supportive environment for prevention and control.