According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Vietnam is one of the fastest aging countries in the world. The country currently has 14.2 million people aged 60 and over, an increase of 2.8 million compared to 2019, and this number is projected to reach approximately 18 million by 2030.
Aging can lead to a gradual decline in physical and mental health, increasing the risk of various illnesses, including chronic and preventable diseases. Specifically, older adults often face osteoarthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, depression, and dementia.
Statistics show that nearly two-thirds of people aged 60 and over in Vietnam have chronic conditions, which further increases their susceptibility to infections, including influenza and shingles.
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Maintaining healthy habits can improve physical and mental well-being for older adults. Photo: Shutterstock |
Maintaining healthy habits can improve physical and mental well-being for older adults. Photo: Shutterstock
One way to ensure a healthy old age is to promote and disseminate knowledge about healthcare. Maintaining healthy habits such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and abstaining from smoking can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve physical and mental well-being. In addition, focusing on prevention also helps older adults improve their quality of life.
With advancements in science and technology, vaccines offer a better and faster way to prevent diseases. Vaccinations are not just for children; they are a crucial part of healthcare at every stage of life. According to the WHO, approximately 25 diseases are preventable through vaccination, yet global vaccination rates among adults remain low.
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Vaccination is a crucial part of healthcare and disease prevention at every stage of life. Photo: Shutterstock |
Vaccination is a crucial part of healthcare and disease prevention at every stage of life. Photo: Shutterstock
Dr. Pham Thi My Lien, President of GSK Vietnam, believes that investing in adult vaccination is essential. It not only prevents diseases and reduces the burden on individuals, families, and the healthcare system, but also improves the socio-economic landscape.
"At GSK, we continue to shift from 'sick care' to 'proactive healthcare' through specific activities, facilitating access to vaccines, building trust in their value for adults, and establishing prevention as the standard of care," Ms. My Lien said.
Adult vaccination can yield benefits up to 19 times the initial investment, along with broader economic and social benefits, allowing older adults to remain active and healthy for longer.
Lan Anh
Content produced by VnExpress in collaboration with GSK Vietnam Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., with professional approval from the Vietnam Preventive Medicine Association, to raise public awareness.
