Increased Infection Risks in Individuals with Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease

At a scientific conference organized by the Vietnam Urology and Nephrology Association, it was announced that individuals with diabetes and chronic kidney disease have weakened immune systems and face a significantly increased risk of infections such as pneumonia, shingles, and RSV.

Growth in the Elderly Population and Health Issues

By 2030, the number of people aged 60 and older in Vietnam is expected to reach approximately 18 million, representing an increase of about 4 million compared to 2024.

About two-thirds of the elderly population have underlying health problems, and more than 50% of them face multiple health issues simultaneously.

Effects of Diabetes and Kidney Diseases

Between 20 and 25 percent of people aged 65 and over in Vietnam have diabetes, and approximately 24 percent of this group experience serious kidney problems.

Geriatric studies conducted in major hospitals show that the rate of chronic kidney disease among the elderly has reached 49.3 percent.

Increased Infection and Virus Risks

Diabetes patients face pneumonia and a 38 percent higher risk of shingles, while the risk of severe respiratory syncytial virus infection is also significantly increased.

In individuals with chronic kidney disease, the risk of developing shingles is 29 percent higher, and the risk of infection increases, causing RSV disease to be more severe.

Importance of Vaccination and Expert Opinions

Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Khoa Dieu Van, Vice President of the Vietnam Association of Endocrinology and Diabetes, emphasized that the weakening of the immune system makes infections severe.

Experts stated that vaccination creates an immune shield as important as controlling blood sugar and blood pressure, and is specified as a priority intervention in the KDIGO 2024 guidelines.