Dr. Son explained that Vietnam’s disease profile has changed significantly. Half a century ago, the population had a lower life expectancy and mainly died from infectious diseases such as cholera and dysentery. Today, with longer lifespans, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 80% of all deaths.

“That means 8 out of every 10 deaths result from chronic illnesses. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause, responsible for 4 out of 10 cases, followed by cancer (2 cases), diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), each accounting for one case,” Dr. Son said.

Nutrition, lifestyle, and a dual burden of malnutrition

Poor nutrition and lifestyle choices also contribute significantly to the health crisis. One major challenge is the “double burden” of malnutrition - where undernutrition and obesity coexist.

“Previously, malnutrition was largely due to poverty. Now, it’s mainly caused by a lack of nutritional knowledge,” Dr. Son stated. In practice, he has encountered families where one child is underweight while the other is overweight.

Dr. Phan Bich Nga, Director of the Pediatric Nutrition Consultation Center at the National Institute of Nutrition, added that in clinics, parents are often more concerned about their children being underweight than overweight.

Many believe “a thin child now will gain weight later.” However, poor nutrition during early development can result in both stunted growth and increased risk of NCDs later in life. Undersized children may also become obese adults if their diets and activity levels are not adjusted accordingly.

Moreover, some children may appear full but are deficient in essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, iron, and zinc. Deficiencies in these micronutrients from early childhood can hinder height and physical development, often resulting in stunted growth.

Conversely, overweight and obesity are often the result of consuming too many “empty calories” - foods high in sugar and fat, such as fast food, sugary drinks, and snacks, which provide little fiber or essential nutrients.

The gap between living longer and living healthier

Resolution 72 by the Politburo sets a national goal for 2030: increase average life expectancy to 75.5 years, with at least 68 years of healthy living.

Dr. Son acknowledged that extending life expectancy is feasible, but improving “healthy life expectancy” is a much more complex task. “It’s not something that can happen naturally,” he emphasized.

Achieving this requires addressing several factors, especially the reduction of mortality-linked illnesses like NCDs. Strengthening the quality of primary healthcare is critical to managing common diseases locally and easing the burden on specialized hospitals.

He also underscored the need to improve public health foundations through preventative measures, including a balanced diet, proper micronutrient supplementation, physical activity, and mental wellness strategies.

Vo Thu