The recent news of a young actress under 30 being diagnosed with end-stage kidney failure has shocked the public and health experts alike. What was once considered a disease of the elderly is now affecting younger generations at an alarming rate.

Unfortunately, she’s not an isolated case. Across Vietnam and other parts of the world, similar stories are emerging—pointing to a growing public health concern.

A Carpenter in His 20s Faces Dialysis

One recent case involves a 29-year-old carpenter from Hanoi. Just a short while ago, he considered himself perfectly healthy. But after weeks of persistent fatigue, he visited a clinic—only to be diagnosed with late-stage kidney failure. His doctors are currently working to preserve what little kidney function remains. However, they warn that long-term dialysis may soon be necessary.

University Student Diagnosed After Fainting

Another troubling story involves a second-year university student, barely in his 20s. He collapsed unexpectedly and was rushed to the hospital, where doctors discovered his kidneys were already in end-stage failure. His lifestyle—marked by late nights, a poor diet, and no exercise—may have silently taken a toll on his kidney function.

Why Are Young People Getting Kidney Failure?

In the past, chronic kidney disease (CKD) and kidney failure were most common in older adults with diabetes or hypertension. But according to physicians, lifestyle changes among the youth are accelerating the “rejuvenation” of kidney-related illnesses.