Vietnam National Heart Association Consensus on Obesity and Heart Health
The new consensus announced at the 20th National Cardiology Congress addressed the critical impacts of obesity on cardiovascular health and management strategies.
The Vietnam National Heart Association shared the critical impacts of obesity on heart health and the key points of the 2026 consensus with the public at the 20th National Cardiology Congress.
The Impact of Obesity on Heart Health
Excess adipose tissue does not merely store energy, but also functions like an endocrine organ, paving the way for the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. Experts emphasize that obesity is a chronic, multi-systemic disease with a tendency to relapse and is directly linked to heart health.
A Neglected Risk Factor
Professor Dr. Pham Manh Hung, President of the Vietnam National Heart Association, stated that alongside traditional risk factors, obesity is also a significant danger that receives insufficient attention. Excess adipose tissue directly affects metabolism, blood pressure, inflammation, and cardiac structure.
Diseases Caused by Obesity
Being overweight or obese worsens many conditions such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and sleep apnea. Furthermore, it is directly associated with serious cardiovascular conditions such as heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and venous thrombosis.
Comprehensive Evaluation Methods
The association does not recommend evaluating obesity solely through the body mass index. Physicians should conduct a comprehensive examination by also taking into account waist circumference, fat distribution, body composition, and concomitant organ damage.
Increase Rates in the Country
Data in Vietnam indicate that overweight and obesity rates are rising rapidly among adults and children and adolescents aged 5-19. Projections point to even further increases in these rates in the future.
Individualized Management Plan
Experts recommend a long-term and multifaceted obesity management plan suited to the patient's condition. Alongside lifestyle modifications, pharmacotherapy and metabolic surgery should also be considered when necessary.