China Makes Strides in Combating Chronic Diseases, Prioritizes Obesity Control
China has made significant progress in reducing premature deaths from chronic diseases, but the nation is redoubling its efforts to tackle rising obesity rates.
Significant Reduction in Premature Deaths
According to officials, China has slashed its premature death rate from cardiovascular conditions, cancer, and other major chronic diseases by nearly 19% over the past decade. Data shows the premature death rate for individuals aged 30 to 70 with chronic illnesses fell from 18.5% in 2015 to 15% last year. This is a major victory, considering chronic conditions account for over 80% of deaths annually in China.
Grassroots Efforts and Demonstration Areas
China has implemented a multi-pronged approach to combatting chronic diseases, focusing heavily on grassroots efforts. The nation has established 488 demonstration areas across the country, covering 17.1% of county-level regions. These areas implement comprehensive programs promoting healthy lifestyles and early screenings for chronic conditions.
Progress in Awareness and Treatment
Significant strides have been made in raising awareness, treatment, and control of high blood pressure and diabetes, according to Shen Hongbing, director of the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration. However, he emphasizes the need to translate this increased knowledge into concrete actions for effective disease management.
Obesity: A Growing Concern
Despite the progress, China faces a growing challenge with obesity. Official data reveals that approximately 57% of Chinese adults are either obese or overweight. Over the past decade, the overweight rate has increased by 4.5 percentage points, while the obesity rate has jumped by 6 percentage points.
National Campaign and Global Perspective
To combat this trend, China launched a three-year campaign in June aimed at promoting healthy weight management and lifestyles. Martin Taylor, the World Health Organization’s representative to China, highlights the importance of prioritizing obesity prevention and emphasizes the need for a multi-sectoral approach that includes creating supportive environments for physical activity and enabling healthier food choices.
Strengthened Healthcare Systems
Taylor also stresses the importance of strengthening healthcare systems, including training healthcare professionals, expanding access to quality services, and ensuring essential medicines and technologies are accessible to all.
New Guidelines for Obesity Management
Ji Linong, director of the endocrinology department at Peking University People’s Hospital, shared that new guidelines detailing interventions and therapies for obesity have been released. These guidelines are expected to help healthcare workers tailor weight loss plans to individual patients’ needs.
China’s commitment to tackling chronic diseases and obesity is a crucial step towards improving public health. By focusing on prevention, early detection, and effective treatment, China can continue to make significant strides in reducing the burden of these conditions on its population.