In the past decade, the number of individuals diagnosed with diabetes in Vietnam has doubled, reaching approximately seven million people. Among these, more than 55% are already experiencing complications, with cardiovascular issues comprising 34% of these complications, according to the Vietnam Association of Endocrinology and Diabetes.
Undiagnosed and Untreated Patients
A significant concern is that more than half of the diabetes patients remain undiagnosed and thus untreated. Even among those who have been diagnosed and are receiving treatment, only about one-third achieve their treatment goals. This gap in diagnosis and effective treatment underscores a critical public health issue.
Rising Prevalence and Public Health Impact
Globally, diabetes is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases, rapidly increasing and posing a significant public health concern. It is a leading cause of death, escalating healthcare burdens, and severely impacting public health. Despite its widespread impact, public awareness of diabetes remains limited. The International Diabetes Federation reports that in 2021, over one in ten adults worldwide had diabetes, with the prevalence tripling since 2000 for individuals aged 20 to 79. Healthcare costs for diabetes have also tripled over the past 15 years.
Diabetes in Vietnam
In Vietnam, the prevalence of diabetes is rapidly increasing and is found not only in urban areas but also in mountainous, midland, and lowland regions. Diabetes causes severe health issues, disabilities, and even death due to late diagnosis and treatment. Currently, Vietnam has about seven million people with diabetes, with over 55% experiencing complications. These include:
- Cardiovascular complications: 34%
- Eye and nerve complications: 39.5%
- Kidney complications: 24%
These complications not only increase healthcare costs but also significantly reduce the quality of life.
Diabetes in Children
The incidence of diabetes in children is also rising, with type 1 diabetes accounting for 90% of cases. Data from pediatric hospitals indicate that nearly 2,000 children nationwide have been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. At the National Children’s Hospital, 943 children were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes over the past 33 years, and currently, 586 children under 18 years old are being treated and managed. The incidence of type 1 diabetes in children has been increasing nationwide over the past seven years.
Treatment and Management
Patients with type 1 diabetes require initial treatment with insulin at the hospital, followed by stable doses administered at home. The main focus is on monitoring the patient and providing appropriate treatment to minimize complications. To enhance the standardization and quality of diabetes care, the Ministry of Health has developed guidelines for diagnosing and treating type 1 diabetes in children and adolescents based on scientific advancements and international recommendations. These guidelines focus primarily on clinical practice in diagnosing and treating type 1 diabetes.
Non-Communicable Diseases
Over 77% of deaths in Vietnam are related to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), a rate that is increasing. Diabetes, along with cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), belongs to this group of diseases. The Ministry of Health, along with professional associations, public-private partners, and international health organizations, has been actively communicating and implementing various measures to prevent and control diabetes. These efforts aim to bring about positive and meaningful changes for the lives of millions of diabetes patients in Vietnam.
Conclusion
The doubling of diabetes cases in Vietnam over the past decade highlights a growing public health crisis. With more than half of the diabetic population undiagnosed and untreated, there is an urgent need for increased awareness, early diagnosis, and effective management. By implementing standardized care guidelines and leveraging public-private partnerships, Vietnam can work towards mitigating the impact of diabetes and improving the quality of life for its citizens.
Related topics:
Study Reveals Link Between BPA in Plastic Bottles and Increased Type 2 Diabetes Risk
City of Hope Unveils Cutting-Edge Diabetes Research at ADA Conference
Investigating the Anti-Diabetic Potential of Camellia sinensis Leaf Extract: An In Vitro Analysis
