According to Ministry of Health statistics, approximately 200,000 Vietnamese people die from cardiovascular disease annually, accounting for about 33% of total deaths. Among these, infections such as influenza, Covid-19, pneumococcal pneumonia, and lower respiratory tract infections caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are considered significant factors linked to increased mortality and cardiovascular events, especially in individuals with heart failure and coronary artery disease.

Raising cardiovascular health awareness early is a way to enjoy a healthy and happy life with loved ones. Photo: Shutterstock

A study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases in 2022 revealed that patients with congestive heart failure had a 4-33 times higher risk of hospitalization due to RSV compared to individuals without this condition.

NCBI cited another prospective study across multiple countries, which noted that the incidence of certain complications and severe outcomes in adults hospitalized for acute respiratory tract infections (ARTI) due to RSV was comparable to or higher than that of influenza. For instance, the rate of cardiovascular events in patients hospitalized for ARTI due to RSV was 31,7% compared to 24,1% for influenza.

This creates a bidirectional relationship: underlying cardiovascular disease makes individuals more susceptible to infections such as influenza, pneumococcal disease, or RSV. Conversely, acute infections increase the risk of serious complications in individuals with cardiovascular conditions.

According to Professor, Doctor Pham Manh Hung, Head of the Cardiology Department at Hanoi Medical University and President of the Southeast Asian Federation of Cardiology, effective infection prevention is a crucial solution to break the cycle between underlying cardiovascular disease and infectious illnesses. He outlined the following key considerations:

Regular check-ups and consultations: frequent health examinations can help detect and effectively manage risk factors.

Proactive prevention through vaccines: vaccination is an effective solution for preventing infections in cardiovascular patients.

Multidisciplinary coordination: cardiologists, infectious disease specialists, and preventive medicine practitioners need to collaborate seamlessly to effectively treat underlying conditions, prevent infectious diseases, and manage other risk factors.

Professor, Doctor Pham Manh Hung emphasizes the role of preventing infectious diseases and infections in individuals with cardiovascular disease. Photo: GSK

Family serves as a spiritual foundation, offering patients the motivation to maintain their health daily. When each member proactively practices preventive care, undergoes health check-ups, and shares information, the entire family builds a strong basis for collective growth, overcoming challenges, and contributing positively to the community.

At GSK, research innovations focus on early disease prevention and intervention to slow progression and reduce long-term complications. By integrating science, technology, and expert teams, the company aims to positively impact public health at all life stages, notably by expanding access to vaccinations.

Dong Ve

Content produced by VnExpress in collaboration with GSK Vietnam Pharmaceutical Limited, with contributions from Professor, Doctor Pham Manh Hung.