About 22 million Vietnamese suffer chronic diseases: conference

Speaking at the event, Lam My Hang, a doctor from the Ho Chi Minh City-based hospital, said that Vietnam, like many countries, faces a rapidly aging population.

More than 72 percent of people aged over 60 have at least one chronic condition, and nearly 44 percent suffer multiple illnesses. This underscores the urgent need for long-term health management for seniors.

Pham Nguyen Son, vice-president of the Vietnam National Heart Association, said the world is entering a period of fast population aging.

By 2050, the number of people aged 80 and above is expected to triple to approximately 430 million, with hypertension affecting more than 80 percent of them.

Elderly patients often face multiple chronic conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, lipid disorders, or heart failure, making treatment complex and increasing risks of hospitalization, disability, and death.

Nguyen Hong Phuc of Military Hospital 175 described hypertension as a 'silent killer' because it often shows no symptoms for years.

The doctor said that managing hypertension requires lifelong treatment.

He emphasized that while blood pressure medication is necessary when prescribed by physicians, lifestyle modification remains the cornerstone of effective blood pressure control and reducing the risk of severe complications.

Patients are advised to reduce salt intake, eat more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and fish, and maintain at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

Weight control, limiting alcohol, quitting smoking, and practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga are also essential.

Major General Le Quang Tri, deputy director of Military Hospital 175 under the Ministry of National Defense, said the hospital has expanded its expertise, facilities, and technology to serve both military personnel and civilians.

The hospital’s cardiology center now includes internal medicine, interventional cardiology, and cardiac surgery departments, offering advanced procedures such as coronary interventions, arrhythmia treatment, and heart surgery.

Patients receive comprehensive care, including rehabilitation before, during, and after treatment.