Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): A Global and Vietnamese Burden

1. Definition of NCDs:

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are diseases that are not transmissible from person to person. They are typically caused by a combination of factors, with behavioral factors playing a significant role.

2. Major Risk Factors for NCDs:

• Behavioral:
• Smoking: The leading risk factor for NCDs, accounting for 97% of total deaths and 94% of total DALYs (Disability-Adjusted Life Year) from NCDs.
• Alcohol consumption: Contributing to 5.7% of total deaths and 4.7% of total DALYs from NCDs, and responsible for 75% of the total disease burden attributed to NCDs.
• Physical inactivity: Responsible for 2.8% of total deaths and 1.5% of total DALYs from NCDs.
• Unhealthy diet: Contributing to 23% of total deaths and 9.5% of total DALYs from NCDs.

3. Major Diseases Under the NCD Umbrella:

The World Health Organization (WHO) focuses on four main diseases within the NCD category:

• Cardiovascular disease: The leading cause of premature death globally and in Vietnam.
• Diabetes: A dangerous chronic illness that can lead to serious complications.
• Chronic respiratory diseases: Causing breathing difficulties and significantly impacting health and quality of life.
• Cancer: The second leading cause of death worldwide and on the rise.

4. Key Characteristics of NCDs:

• Unclear disease-causing agents: Unlike infectious diseases, NCDs are often caused by a combination of factors, making the causative agents less clear.
• Multifaceted causes: NCDs typically stem from a variety of causes, ranging from genetics and environmental factors to lifestyle habits.
• Long latency period: NCDs often have a prolonged latent period with no obvious symptoms, making early detection challenging.
• Unpredictable onset: The onset of the disease can be sudden and unpredictable.
• Influence of other factors: Besides the main risk factors, NCDs are also influenced by other factors such as age, gender, health status, environmental conditions, and more.

5. The Burden of Disease from NCDs:

• Premature death: Measured by YLL (Years of Life Lost).
• Disability: Measured by YLD (Years Lived with Disability).
• DALY: The sum of years of life lost due to premature death and years lived with disability.

6. The Global NCD Situation:

• According to the WHO, in 2010, 65.3% of deaths were caused by NCDs.
• Three out of every ten premature deaths are due to heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
• The WHO estimates that 41 million people die each year from NCDs, accounting for 71% of total global deaths.
• The WHO predicts a 15% increase in NCD deaths (44 million people) by 2020.
• The regions with the highest NCD deaths in 2020 are Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific.
• By 2030, NCD deaths in low-income countries are expected to be eight times higher than in high-income countries.

7. The NCD Situation in Vietnam:

• In 2010, NCDs accounted for 66% of the disease burden in Vietnam.
• In 2016, NCD deaths comprised 77% of total deaths in Vietnam.
• In 2010, deaths from major NCD categories in Vietnam:
• Cardiovascular disease: 30%
• Cancer: 21%
• Chronic respiratory diseases: 6%
• Diabetes: 3%

8. The Cost of NCDs:

• Direct costs: Include expenses related to medical care, transportation, accommodation, etc.
• Indirect costs: Encompass lost productivity, lost income, selling assets for treatment, etc.

9. The WHO’s Program to Reduce Risk Factors for NCDs (2016-2021-2026):

• Behavioral:
• Reduce alcohol consumption by 10%
• Reduce physical inactivity by 10%
• Reduce salt intake by 30%
• Reduce smoking among individuals over 15 years old by 30%
• Disease burden:
• Reduce cardiovascular disease deaths by 25%
• Increase the rate of high blood pressure control by 25%
• Increase the rate of blood sugar control by 50%
• Increase access to primary healthcare services and medications by 80%

Note:

• NCD statistics can vary over time and based on data collection methods.
• This article provides general information about NCDs and cannot replace medical advice from professionals.
• It’s important to adopt a healthy lifestyle to prevent NCDs and protect your health.