Vietnam's child health improves but faces rising obesity challenges

Vietnam has made steady progress in improving children’s health over the past decade. The rate of stunting among under-fives has dropped significantly, while average heights and physical activity levels have risen. Yet concerns remain as overweight and obesity rates among school-age children have doubled since 2010. Between 2010 and 2020, the percentage of children under five suffering from stunting fell from 29.3% to 19.6%. At the same time, the average height of 18-year-old boys increased by 3.7cm, reaching 168.1cm. Physical activity among teenagers also improved, with 24.1% of 13- to 17-year-olds meeting recommended exercise levels in 2019, up from 20.5% in 2013.

However, overweight and obesity have become growing issues. Among school-age children (5 to 19), the rate rose to 19% in 2020—double the previous figure. For under-fives, the rate stands at 7.4%, with urban areas showing higher levels. In response, the Ministry of Education and Training (MoET) and the Ministry of Health (MoH) are reviewing school physical education programmes. They are also strengthening nutrition and hygiene standards. Last year, a plan was outlined to create legal regulations on school nutrition and fitness nationwide. Both ministries aim to push forward reforms in school health and physical education by 2035.

The government’s focus on nutrition and physical fitness reflects a long-term strategy to boost child development. With stunting rates declining and physical activity improving, officials are now targeting obesity and urban health disparities. The reforms aim to ensure better health outcomes for Vietnamese children over the next decade.