Posted by In recent years, Vietnam has faced a significant rise in diabetes cases, posing a considerable threat to public health. Alarming statistics and studies shed light on the factors contributing to this surge, including excessive consumption of sugary drinks and a sedentary lifestyle. The consequences are not only reflected in the sheer number of individuals affected but also in the alarming rate of complications.
As early as 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) sounded the alarm, highlighting that the number of diabetics in Vietnam had doubled over the preceding decade. This drastic increase indicated a concerning trend in the country’s health landscape. The factors contributing to this surge can be attributed to a combination of lifestyle changes and the rapid growth of urbanization.
Sadly, this trend has not reversed. The fall of 2022 brought forth a sobering announcement from Vietnam’s Deputy Health Minister. The number of Vietnamese individuals living with diabetes reached a staggering five million, marking a 43% increase from the figures reported in 2019. Furthermore, an alarming 55% of diabetes patients experienced complications, underscoring the urgent need for improved prevention, early detection, and effective management of the disease.
I have had the opportunity to spend a significant amount of time Vietnam this year and I am far from the first visitor to note the high consumption of sugary drinks among the Vietnamese population. From traditional sweetened coffee and tea to popular juices and carbonated beverages, these drinks have become ingrained in Vietnamese culture and daily routines. The excessive intake of added sugars, poses a significant risk factor for the development of diabetes and other related health complications.
In 2017, a study conducted by Stanford University highlighted another contributing factor to the rising diabetes cases in Vietnam. The study found that Vietnamese people walked significantly less than their counterparts in region, in particular compared to Hong Kong. Walking, an activity associated with improved cardiovascular health and weight management, is crucial in preventing diabetes. The sedentary lifestyle prevalent in Vietnam due to various factors, including transportation preferences and a lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, adds to the burden of the disease.
To combat the diabetes epidemic in Vietnam, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. Public awareness campaigns play a crucial role in educating the population about the risks associated with excessive sugar consumption and sedentary lifestyles. Promoting a healthy diet, regular exercise, and creating an environment that encourages physical activity are essential steps towards reducing the incidence of diabetes.
Moreover, healthcare providers must focus on early detection and provide accessible and affordable screening programs for diabetes. By diagnosing the disease in its early stages, healthcare professionals can initiate interventions and lifestyle modifications that help prevent or delay complications.
Collaboration between government bodies, healthcare institutions, non-governmental organizations, and the food and beverage industry is also vital. Implementing policies that regulate the production, marketing, and sale of sugary drinks can reduce the overall consumption and availability of these products.
The escalating diabetes crisis in Vietnam is a wake-up call for the nation. Urgent action is required to address the root causes of this epidemic and alleviate the burden it places on individuals, families, and the healthcare system. By raising awareness, promoting healthy lifestyles, and implementing effective policies, Vietnam can take significant strides toward mitigating the impact of diabetes and improving the overall well-being of its population. It is a collective effort that requires collaboration and commitment from all stakeholders to ensure a healthier future for Vietnam.
Nico Eggert 