National health day, an initiative by the Ministry of Health, aims to bolster public health. Under the theme "proactive disease prevention - for a healthy Vietnam", the program promotes a shift from treatment to prevention, advocating for healthy lifestyles, regular check-ups, and active self-monitoring of health indicators.

As part of national health day 2026, numerous free health screenings have been conducted, drawing significant public participation. Attendees received blood pressure and blood sugar checks, disease risk consultations, and guidance on healthy living.

Boosting community stroke screenings

With over 200,000 stroke cases annually, Vietnam faces a significant health challenge, as stroke remains a primary cause of death and disability. To address this, Long Chau, in partnership with Bayer and the Department of Disease Prevention (Ministry of Health), is extensively implementing the program "strengthening prevention, early detection, and management of stroke risk in Vietnam".

Delegates visit the free stroke screening program for the public, organized by Long Chau and Bayer. *Long Chau*

At these screening locations, individuals receive basic health checks and direct consultations from medical professionals on stroke risks and prevention. High-risk cases are advised on ongoing monitoring and referred to specialized medical facilities as needed.

The program also offers free bone density checks, aiding in the early detection of musculoskeletal issues that can impact long-term quality of life.

Leveraging its network of nearly 2,500 pharmacies and over 200 vaccination centers, Long Chau and its partners conduct widespread screenings, raise awareness about early stroke signs, and organize mobile health checks across various localities. This public-private collaboration enhances access to preventive healthcare services.

Medical staff measure and advise on health indicators, supporting individuals in proactive disease prevention. *Long Chau*

Expanding cardiovascular and atrial fibrillation screenings

In parallel with the stroke initiative, Long Chau is partnering with Omron to conduct atrial fibrillation and hypertension screenings at 200 pharmacies nationwide, beginning 5/4.

Atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder, significantly raises stroke risk if undetected. This condition often develops silently, making early recognition challenging without specialized equipment.

Individuals participate in healthcare activities. *Long Chau*

Long Chau and Omron are deploying advanced healthcare technologies at these screening sites. Individuals will undergo atrial fibrillation screenings and blood pressure checks using the Omron 7383T monitor. This device features integrated afib detection, providing high accuracy in a single measurement through intellisense afib technology. Beyond these technological assessments, participants receive expert consultations and referrals to specialized medical facilities for further monitoring or treatment as required.

These free screening programs are integral to developing a preventive healthcare ecosystem, encouraging individuals to adopt regular health monitoring habits rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.

Starting 5/4, Long Chau is implementing a free atrial fibrillation screening program at 200 pharmacies nationwide. *Long Chau*

Nguyen Do Quyen, deputy general director of FPT Retail and chief operating officer for Long Chau's pharmacy and vaccination center system, stated that national health day underscores a pivotal shift in healthcare, emphasizing disease prevention. Long Chau is committed to supporting the Ministry of Health's strategy for stroke prevention, management, and chronic disease control in Vietnam.

She emphasized that stroke is preventable with early detection and effective management of risk factors. "Through our extensive network and collaborations with domestic and international partners, we aim to make health screening and consultation services more accessible, thereby reducing the burden of disease and enhancing community well-being," Quyen added.

These national health day initiatives align with the healthcare sector's focus on preventive care, contributing to improved quality of life and fostering healthier communities long-term.

Hoai Phuong