Stroke prevention gains urgency as younger cases emerge

The Ministry of Health has warned that stroke is a major cause of death and disability in the country. Although the risk increases with age, the disease is no longer confined to older people. People under 45 account for around 7.2% of cases, according to Nguyen Huy Thang, vice chairman of the Vietnam Stroke Association.

The trend reflects a broader global concern. A 2025 study analysing Global Burden of Disease data found that the number of new stroke cases among people aged 15–49 increased by 36% worldwide between 1990 and 2021. While age-standardised rates generally declined over the full period, the incidence of some stroke types among young adults began rising again after 2015. The findings point to a growing need to address risk factors earlier in life.

High blood pressure remains a major concern. According to the World Health Organization’s 2025 hypertension profile for Vietnam, about 16.9 million adults aged 30–79 have hypertension, but only 15% have their blood pressure under control. Smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, excess weight, physical inactivity, unhealthy diets and harmful alcohol use can further increase the risk of stroke.

To mark World Stroke Day on October 29, the Department of Disease Prevention under the Ministry of Health, the Vietnam Young Physicians Association, Bach Mai Hospital and other partners have stepped up screening, health consultations and public awareness activities. The World Stroke Organization’s 2026 campaign, “Every Minute Counts”, urges people to recognise stroke symptoms and seek emergency care without delay.

A national programme launched in October 2025 to strengthen stroke prevention, early detection and risk management has organised nine screening campaigns across eight provinces and cities, reaching more than 12,000 people. Activities included free health checks and consultations in Duc Quang commune, Ha Tinh Province. Bach Mai Hospital and its partners also provided examinations and medicines to residents of Nghi Xuan and Tien Dien communes.

Doctors urge people to check their blood pressure regularly, manage diabetes and cholesterol, stop smoking, eat a balanced diet and exercise consistently. The WHO recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week for adults.

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