Cambodia: One in five adults at risk of stroke

A recent report A joint statement by the Cambodian Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the worrying increase in the prevalence of noncommunicable disease (NCD) risk factors among Cambodian adults. According to the STEPS 2023 survey, one in five Cambodians is at risk of stroke, mainly due to hypertension, smoking, and other behavioral risk factors. These findings call for immediate action to prevent a long-term health crisis.[1].

The growing burden of non-communicable diseases

The STEPS survey, which assessed key risk factors among 4,320 people aged 18 to 69, highlighted worrying trends in lifestyle-related health risks. Tobacco and alcohol use, high blood pressure, obesity, poor eating habits, and lack of physical activity are among the main factors contributing to non-communicable diseases, which now account for approximately 64.1% of all deaths in Cambodia. The report highlights that 19.9% of adults have high blood pressure and 6.3% have high blood sugar, indicating an increasing prevalence of diabetes.

Cambodians' eating habits remain a serious concern: more than 80% of adults do not meet the recommended intake of fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, 36.2% of them regularly add salt to their food, which increases the risk of hypertension. Furthermore, 9.4% of adults consume sugary drinks daily, especially among younger adults, which contributes to obesity and metabolic disorders.

The role of tobacco in NCDs in Cambodia

Smoking remains a leading cause of noncommunicable diseases in Cambodia, particularly among men. The survey found that 29.6% of Cambodian men aged 18 to 69 currently smoke, with a large proportion having started smoking in their late teens. While smoking rates among men have declined since 2010, the number of women who smoke has increased slightly. Furthermore, exposure to secondhand smoke remains high, with significant public health implications.

The health risks associated with smoking are well documented, including lung disease, heart disease, and stroke. The Cambodian government has made progress in combating tobacco use, but experts stress that stricter policies, including higher tobacco taxes and tighter advertising regulations, are needed to sustainably reduce tobacco consumption in the country.

Fight against this epidemic

The STEPS 2023 survey results underscore the urgent need to strengthen public health interventions. Health officials are advocating for nationwide educational campaigns on healthy eating, exercise, and smoking cessation programs. Furthermore, policies that promote access to affordable health care, routine screenings, and medications for hypertension and diabetes will be crucial in mitigating the rise of noncommunicable diseases.

With NCDs now posing a significant threat to Cambodia's health system and workforce productivity, the study authors warn of the urgent need to address risk factors. WHO emphasizes the importance of coordinated efforts across government sectors, civil society, and health care providers to reverse these trends and ensure a healthier future for the Cambodian population.

©Generation Without Tobacco

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[1] Press release, 1 in 5 Cambodian adults are at risk of stroke as noncommunicable disease risks increase, WHO, published March 11, 2025, accessed March 12, 2025