CHRONIC DISEASES AMONG ADULTS IN RURAL AREAS OF THE MEKONG DELTA – A SOCIOLOGICAL APPROACH

Abstract

Chronic diseases, characterized by long duration and slow progression, have become a global health burden with significant social, economic, and healthcare challenges. Based on quantitative and qualitative survey data in 2023 in four rural communities in the Mekong Delta, this paper investigates the chronic disease status of the people in this region. The findings indicate that the prevalence of chronic diseases in rural Mekong Delta communities is relatively high, accompanied by multimorbidity and influenced by multiple factors. In addition to elements such as overwork, harmful food and drink consumption, and irregular diets, the study also reveals that extreme climatic conditions and environmental pollution have increased both the prevalence and severity of chronic diseases.