At the 3rd Community Nutrition Day in Hanoi on September 21, Deputy Minister of Health Tran Van Tuan addressed the growing concerns over rising obesity rates, stating that while living conditions have improved, people are now facing the challenge of eating in a balanced way. He emphasized that despite increased health awareness, many are still neglecting proper nutrition and regular exercise.

According to a report by the National Institute of Nutrition, the rate of obesity among children aged 5-19 has doubled in the past decade, rising from 8.5% in 2010 to 19% in 2020. Additionally, a recent study conducted in 2023 showed that obesity rates among 5th graders in urban districts of Hanoi ranged from 45-55%, while rates in rural areas reached 20-31%.

Dr. Nguyen Trong Hung from the National Institute of Nutrition expressed deep concern about the rising rates of childhood obesity, noting that the issue affects children’s physical development and long-term health.

To address this issue, Dr. Hung recommended that parents focus on providing balanced meals with appropriate amounts of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and essential micronutrients, including calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. He also suggested that schools and parents should frequently change meal plans to keep children interested and include visually appealing fruits and vegetables to encourage better eating habits.

In terms of physical activity, Dr. Hung urged that children engage in regular exercise, whether through games, sports, or outdoor activities. He recommended 30-60 minutes of physical activity per day, such as walking, cycling, or participating in school sports.

Deputy Minister Tran Van Tuan highlighted the government's commitment to improving public health through Resolution 20/2017, which focuses on strengthening healthcare, and Resolution 21, which emphasizes the importance of population health. Both policies stress the importance of proper nutrition and exercise for all age groups, with particular attention to pregnant women, school-aged children, and the elderly.

The resolutions also encourage regular physical activity and healthy lifestyles, especially for school-aged children, in order to improve the future health and stature of the Vietnamese population.

Thuy Nga