Hanoi (VNA) - Bayer, a global pharmaceutical conglomerate, is intensifying its contribution to Vietnam’s National Strategic Collaboration Programme for Stroke Prevention and Management through new public–private partnership initiatives.
Stroke remains a pressing public health issue in Vietnam, ranking among the leading causes of death and disability. Every year, Vietnam records nearly 200,000 new stroke cases and 170,000 stroke-related deaths, ranking fourth in South Asia. The 60-70 age bracket has the highest stroke incidence and mortality rate – younger than the average seen in other countries. Meanwhile, the incidence of stroke is increasing in young and middle-aged people, placing immense pressure on families and society.
Against the backdrop, the Ministry of Health (MoH) officially launched the National Strategic Collaboration Programme for Stroke Prevention and Management on the World Stroke Day (October 29). The initiative unites multi-key public and private sector partners, including the Department of Medical Service Administration, Administration of Disease Prevention, the Vietnam Young Physicians Association (VYPA), the Hanoi Stroke Association, Bayer Vietnam, Long Chau and the Suc Khoe Doi Song Newspaper. Together, they aim to implement a comprehensive, long-term effort to significantly reduce the burden of stroke and improve the quality of life for the Vietnamese population.
Following the launch ceremony, the VYPA, Bayer and Long Chau teamed up to deliver Free Stroke Screening For 1,000 People. Community members received screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, BMI, carotid ultrasound, and basic neurological examinations, along with consultations on stroke risk management. Notably, this program incorporated artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze screening data, helping to identify high-risk groups, provide personalized recommendations, and create a community stroke risk map. This marks a significant advancement in the digital transformation of preventive healthcare, highlighting the pivotal role of technology in health management and the prevention of non-communicable diseases.
Another highlight was the Cycling for a Healthier Vietnam event, which brought together numerous volunteers and community members to promote the importance of a healthy lifestyle in preventing strokes. At the Energy Charging Station hosted by Bayer Vietnam, participants received support from pharmacists, who provided consultations as well as essential vitamin and mineral supplements to help maintain their vitality throughout the event.
Speaking at the event, James Alexander, Country Head of Pharmaceuticals Division at Bayer Vietnam, said: “We view this as a crucial responsibility to enhance primary healthcare quality. By providing the Vietnamese people with effective knowledge and solutions for stroke prevention and management, we can significantly alleviate the burden of disease, improve healthcare services, and ensure access to high-quality care in Vietnam. This commitment aligns perfectly with Bayer’s global mission: Health for all, Hunger for none.”
Strengthening collaboration for better stroke care
Guided by the MoH’s strategic planning and long-term vision extending to 2035, the National Strategic Collaboration Programme for Stroke Prevention and Management is fully aligned with the National Plan for Non-Communicable Disease Prevention and Management. The program will be implemented in three phases focusing on four core activities to address stroke burden, including raising community awareness, building capacity for healthcare professionals, promoting regular health screening practices, and improving access to advanced solutions for stroke prevention and management.
A key component of the plan is the joint national communication campaign, “Stroke – Prevention, Early Recognition, Fast Action.” This campaign aims to rapidly elevate community awareness regarding prevention and the appropriate actions required during a stroke event. The campaign will utilize the Suc Khoe Doi Song Newspaper as its main platform, supported by multi-channel communications to reach out to community.
Nguyen Bach Diep, Chairwoman of FPT Retail and General Director of the Long Chau Pharmacy and Vaccination Center System, stated: "With a network of over 2,400 pharmacies and 200 vaccination centers nationwide, along with a team of experienced professionals, Long Châu recognizes that community health is the sustainable foundation of a prosperous nation. In response to the spirit of Resolution 72-NQ/TW from the Politburo and Resolution No. 282/NQ-CP from the Government regarding breakthroughs in public healthcare, we are committed to collaborating with health agencies, hospitals, experts, and leading strategic partners to implement a series of programs aimed at preventing illness and enhancing health, contributing to a healthier Vietnam."
Prior to the launch ceremony of this National Strategic Collaboration Programme for Stroke Prevention and Management, with a shared vision to increase patients’ access to better healthcare, Bayer and Long Chau also signed a strategic MoU on October 24. This landmark partnership goes far beyond stroke, aiming to significantly improve Vietnamese public health across crucial areas. The collaboration will bring accessible solutions for women's health, such as contraception and endometriosis treatment, and better management for chronic conditions like hypertension, ocular diseases, and gastrointestinal cancer.
By leveraging Long Chau's extensive pharmacy network and digital reach, along with Bayer’s vast expertise in healthcare, the partners commit to delivering vital health education directly to communities. This initiative will empower the public with easy access to knowledge and ensure high-quality, expert advice from pharmacists, enabling individuals to actively manage their health effectively./.
