Website to raise public awareness about obesity

The Vietnam Medical Association (VMA) and Novo Nordisk Vietnam today announced a new website “giamcansongkhoe.vn” as part of strategic efforts between both parties to enhance public understanding of Vietnam’s rising burden of obesity, often referred to as the “silent killer.” 

The “Giamcansongkhoe.vn” website aims to: Provide a trusted channel for Vietnamese to better understand obesity as a chronic disease, the science of obesity, and the burden of this disease; Provide useful digital tools that leverage reliable scientific resources from the Vietnam Medical Association; Encourage people living with overweight and obesity to engage health experts about their situations and contribute to combating stigma they may face; Share and replicate the successful experiences of those who have practiced and managed weight scientifically and effectively.

In response to this achievement, Associate Professor Nguyen Thi Xuyen, President of VMA and Former Vice Health Minister of Vietnam, highlighted that: “Vietnam’s obesity prevalence has been increasing significantly over the past 10 years and there is a tendency for this to continue in the next 10 years. It is estimated that by 2030, 30% of the adult population and 40% of children will live with overweight and obesity (3,4). Obesity is a complex chronic disease, leading to increased risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, affecting bone health and reproduction, it also increases the risk of certain cancers. Thanks to the support of Novo Nordisk Vietnam, such reliable websites provide a good channel for engaging people with overweight and obesity, and connecting them to HCOs for treatment.”

Mr. Erik Wiebols, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Vietnam, emphasized that: “With a legacy spanning over a century, Novo Nordisk has a long history of developing innovative treatments for chronic and rare diseases, with diabetes and obesity among our key therapeutic areas. I trust that this website will significantly raise awareness about the burden of obesity and the scientific management of the disease among the Vietnamese population. The launch of this website is a truly important step towards realizing our shared vision and dedication to make a difference in improving the lives of people living with obesity. Let’s come together to drive meaningful change and build a healthier world for future generations.”

“Rethinking obesity! It is not just lifestyle changing! Bring WISHES and HOPE for patients with obesity with multidisciplinary realistic solutions and always be behind them. Encourage, reassure them that health care professionals and they together can drive the change. Obesity is a complex chronic disease – the silent killer but it can be managed by the experts!” - Representative from National Geriatric Hospital, Associate Professor Vu Thi Thanh Huyen, Head of Obesity Treatment and Management Unit shared. This is one of the healthcare organizations in the country with an Obesity Treatment and Management Unit that is listed in the website’s HCO locator. 

The obesity website will be frequently updated with scientific contents provided by reputable experts in obesity care and treatment across the country. It is anticipated that this platform will play a pivotal role in catalyzing transformative efforts in the fight against obesity in Vietnam.