The program, a collaboration between the Vietnam Young Physicians Association and Abbott, launched on 31/1, aiming to improve the quality of life for seniors. This initiative is part of the "Elderly Health Care - For a Healthier Vietnam 2026" activity series, providing health screenings to over 1,000 elderly individuals in Hanoi.
Doctors from numerous central hospitals and medical facilities, including K Hospital, Bach Mai Hospital, Endocrinology Hospital, Eye Hospital, Traditional Medicine Hospital, National Institute of Nutrition, Central Acupuncture Hospital, Central Lung Hospital, and Central Ear-Nose-Throat Hospital, participated in examining and counseling patients. Seniors received comprehensive health services: blood pressure checks, nutritional risk screening, and complete blood count (18 parameters). Additionally, they underwent paraclinical tests as prescribed by doctors, including abdominal ultrasound, electrocardiogram, and chest X-ray, and were assisted in installing remote health management apps and utilizing AI for medical consultation.
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Seniors in Hanoi receive early disease screening at the program. *Photo: Thai Binh*
Nguyen Huu Tu, Permanent Vice President of the Vietnam Young Physicians Association, stated that Resolution 72 provides clear directions for shifting from a treatment mindset to health care, from passive to proactive, and from individual to community. The program helps foster proactive health care habits, encouraging seniors to prioritize physical activity, scientific nutrition, and regular health monitoring—key factors for improving quality of life in old age.
Despite a high average life expectancy, Vietnamese people face an early burden of disease, and their quality of life is not commensurate, with each person enduring an average of about 10 years of illness. Most individuals begin suffering from chronic diseases from the age of 64, significantly reducing their healthy lifespan. The core reason for this paradox of "long life but not healthy" is often an irrational diet.
The government aims for an average Vietnamese life expectancy of 75,5 by 2030, with a minimum of 68 healthy years. In this strategy, nutrition plays a key role in human physical development. Experts advise people to adopt a healthy diet, supplement micronutrients, increase physical activity, and manage stress. Additionally, communication and education efforts play a continuous role in changing community behavior.
Le Nga
