16M Vietnamese People Developing Hepatitis, 10% at Risk of Cancer: Assoc. Prof.

Around 16 million Vietnamese people, equal to 16%-17% of the population, are developing hepatitis of all types, said Associate Professor-Dr. Do Duy Cuong from Hanoi-based Bach Mai Hospital. Mr. Cuong released the information at a scientific workshop in Hanoi on July 25 to update relevant knowledge to medical staff of some centrally-run and Hanoi-based hospitals. He noted that 10% of those 16 million people are at risk of developing cancer. At present, health insurance covers 50% of treatment costs for Hepatitis C at some centrally-run medical facilities. He hoped that the policy will be applied at all facilities soon. According to the Ministry of Health, Vietnam is striving to eliminate the mother-to-child transmission of HIV, hepatitis B and syphilis by 2030. (Nhan Dan)