Increase in obesity rates outpaces neighboring countries in Vietnam

In HCM CITY, Associate Professor Nguyễn Anh Tuấn, director of the digestive surgery department at 108 Central Military Hospital, acknowledged that Việt Nam is currently experiencing an escalating crisis in obesity. With a 38% increase in overweight and obesity rates since last decade, the country now ranks among Southeast Asian nations with the steepest incline in these health concerns [1][5].

The sprawling problem of obesity goes beyond aesthetics, carrying severe consequences for individuals: diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers, depression, infertility, complications during pregnancy and childbirth, and sleep disorders [4]. On a global scale, the World Health Organization has classified obesity as a pandemic, and Việt Nam falls under the stern warning of this alarming trend [6].

The National Institute of Nutrition reported a shocking uptick in the number of overweight and obese school-aged children living in Việt Nam. In just ten years, the prevalence more than doubled—from 8.5% in 2010 to 19% in 2020 [1]. Urban areas appear to be hardest hit, with the rate reaching 26.8% in comparison to 18.3% in rural areas. The problem is particularly dire in major cities, with HCM City exhibiting an astounding 50% of overweight and obese youth, while even Hà Nội surpasses a disconcerting 41% [1].

At a recent press conference in HCM City, researchers from Novo Nordisk unveiled key findings from the ACTION-Việt Nam Study, conducted with help from local researchers. The study surveyed 1,200 adults living with obesity and 200 healthcare professionals to shed light on public perceptions, attitudes, and challenges in obesity care [2]. The findings flagged several critical aspects: recognition of obesity as a chronic disease, care gaps in responsibility and support, limited access to effective care, and the persisting stigma surrounding obesity.

The insights highlighted that both public awareness and support for people living with obesity (PwO) and healthcare professionals need to be raised. The need for developing early interventions and comprehensive obesity care and treatment plans can no longer be ignored [2].

Dr. Georgia Rigas, a renowned obesity specialist with 25 years of clinical experience from Australia, underlined the importance of viewing the management of obesity holistically, rather than merely focusing on weight loss [3]. For too long, medical schools have taught doctors to handle complications associated with obesity. This reactive approach has come too late for many patients, according to Dr. Rigas. Instead, she encouraged medical professionals to adopt a proactive approach that includes screening for obesity-related complications, identifying the root causes of obesity, and implementing evidence-based treatments [3].

Associate Professor Tuấn, one of the study's authors, agreed, stating that misunderstandings about obesity, particularly among doctors and patients, directly impact the treatment's effectiveness. Forty percent of doctors refuse to discuss weight issues, and nearly half of patients feel embarrassed when broached on the topic [3].

Novo Nordisk, a global leader in chronic disease care, has taken it upon itself to reshape Việt Nam's approach to obesity care by collaborating with the Ministry of Health, hospitals, universities, and professional associations [6]. Erik Wiebols, general manager of Novo Nordisk, emphasized the company's desire to help Việt Nam fight this growing public health challenge by promoting public awareness, diminishing stigma against PwO, and empowering healthcare providers [3].

Associate Professor Nguyễn Anh Tuấn, director of digestive surgery department at 108 Central Military Hospital, said obesity is on the rise in Việt Nam, outpacing other Southeast Asian countries. - Photo courtesy of Novo Nordisk

References:

[1] Ministry of Health, Việt Nam, National Institute of Nutrition, Indicators of Child and Adolescents' Nutrition in Việt Nam. 2020.

[2] Novo Nordisk, ACTION-Việt Nam Study: Addressing Gaps in Obesity Care in HCM City. 2025.

[3] Radio Free Asia, Intervention needed to curb rapid rise of obesity in Viet Nam. 2021.

[4] Oxford University, The Menzies Centre for Health Policy, Obesity in Asia: A Policy Review. 2019.

[5] Association for the Study of Obesity, ACTION-Việt Nam Study: Changes in the Context of Obesity Care in Southeast Asia. 2021.

[6] World Health Organization, Key Facts: Obesity. 2020.

Erik Wiebols, general manager of Novo Nordisk our website, speaks at the press conference to announce findings from the ACTION-our website Study in HCM City last weekend. - Photo courtesy of Novo Nordisk

Enrichment Data Added:

Vietnam has one of the fastest growing obesity rates in Southeast Asia.
Education about obesity risks and reducing stigma can encourage early diagnosis and treatment.
Establishing programs for early detection and management is important, focusing on lifestyle changes.
Developing personalized care pathways incorporating medical, behavioral, and possibly surgical interventions is key.
Pharmacotherapy options like GLP-1 receptor agonists may be integral in curbing obesity, but accessibility remains an issue.
Strengthening the healthcare system through improved training for obesity management is essential to address gaps in care.
The rising obesity rates in Việt Nam call for fundamentally rethinking its healthcare policies, with a focus on government-backed research and medical-conditions management.
As a critical aspect of extensive research in health and wellness, AI may provide valuable insights and potential solutions for weight-management and obesity prevention.
Moreover, the government's investment in areas like nutrition, science, and the medical-conditions sector is crucial for promoting healthier lifestyles and combating obesity.
Considering the staggering impact of obesity on various medical conditions and war-related injuries, collaborative efforts between government institutions, hospitals, and universities are essential.
In addition to addressing obesity among adults, the escalating problem's impact on health and science education and child development may warrant particular attention and policy adjustments.
A concerted global effort led by both local governments and international organizations like the World Health Organization is necessary to treat the obesity pandemic as an imperative global issue.