Speaking at the launch of the "I am healthier and more beautiful" contest, organized by Suc khoe Doi song Newspaper on 30/7, Deputy Minister Tran Van Thuan emphasized that health extends beyond the absence of illness, just as beauty is more than weight or physical appearance. He stated that a truly healthy and beautiful individual possesses the physical stamina for work, mental balance to overcome pressure, and enough energy to live positively and contribute to family and society.

The policy shift, outlined in Resolution 72 of the Politburo, from treatment to proactive prevention, can only truly integrate into daily life when concretized through everyday choices. These include eating reasonably, exercising regularly, getting sufficient sleep, managing stress, and undergoing periodic health check-ups.

"These are all very normal things", he said, "but when done correctly and maintained long enough, these normal actions can create extraordinary changes".

According to the Deputy Minister, young people often take their health for granted, staying up late, eating erratically, and exercising little, believing their bodies are still strong. In contrast, upon reaching middle age, work pressures, family responsibilities, and natural bodily changes make health care essential. He noted that many women dedicate most of their time to caring for their families and careers, often neglecting their own health.

He advised against trying to change everything in one day. Instead, "start with something small enough to maintain regularly, turn the right choice into a habit, and transform that habit into a lifestyle".

Deputy Minister of Health Tran Van Thuan speaking at the program on 30/7. Photo: Tran Minh

At the event, Associate Professor Doctor Tran Thanh Duong, Director of the National Institute of Nutrition, warned that many chronic diseases such as cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and hypertension are closely linked to overweight, obesity, malnutrition, and a sedentary lifestyle. He cautioned that rapid weight loss through starvation, using unverified medications, or over-exercising might lead to a 5-7 kg reduction in a short period but can cause dehydration and severely impact the immune system and overall health.

He affirmed that health and beauty must be built on a sustainable foundation. Scientific nutrition and reasonable exercise are the two most important solutions for improving physical fitness and preventing diseases.

The "I am healthier and more beautiful" contest aims to spread the message of scientific nutrition and reasonable exercise. During this occasion, the organizing committee, in collaboration with the Cancer Patient Support Fund - Tomorrow Bright, awarded a prize of 10 million dong specifically to cancer patients participating in the contest. This initiative seeks to encourage patients to maintain a positive lifestyle and improve their health.