Dong Nai holds scientific seminar on policies for AO victims

The Dong Nai Agent Orange (AO)/Dioxin Victims Association held a scientific seminar titled “Policies for Victims and the Harmful Effects of Toxic Chemicals on Humans” in Tran Bien Ward on October 20.

Mai Van Nho, Chairman of the Dong Nai AO/Dioxin Victims Association, speaks at the seminar. Photo: Van Truyen

The event was attended by officials from city departments and agencies, representatives of the association at different levels, experts, scientists, AO victims and their families.

Department of Science and Technology (DoST)’s leader speaks at the seminar. Photo: V.Truyen

At the seminar, participants discussed key issues and proposed measures to standardize data, identify and categorize AO victims, improve healthcare and rehabilitation services for victims and affected families, and develop sustainable livelihood models tailored to their needs.

DoST’s representative speaks at the seminar. Photo: Van Truyen

Mai Van Nho, Chairman of the Dong Nai AO/Dioxin Victims Association, said the ideas and recommendations put forward at the seminar would be compiled into a report for submission to the relevant authorities. This is expected to help improve care and assistance procedures for AO victims in Dong Nai City in the coming period.

According to Nho, Dong Nai has more than 11,000 AO victims, including people who took part in the resistance war and were exposed to toxic chemicals, their children, and civilian victims. Most require long-term healthcare because they suffer from multiple chronic conditions, deteriorating health or lasting health effects from toxic chemical exposure.

Overview of the seminar. Photo: Van Truyen

In recent years, AO victims and their families have received benefits and assistance under State policies. In addition, the Associations for Victims of AO/dioxin at all levels have mobilized more than VND20 billion a year to provide care and support for victims.

By V. Truyen – Translated by M.Nguyet, Minho