Non-communicable diseases and economic well-being in rural households: do remittances have a role to play?

Purpose In rural areas of developing countries, social protection and public healthcare systems are inadequate and underdeveloped, leading to the economic burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among the affected households. Accordingly, these households may use different mitigation strategies in response to such NCDs. However, limited evidence exists on the economic burdens of NCDs and the mitigating roles of remittances. This research addresses the gap by examining the case of a developing economy in the Global South. Design/methodology/approach This research uses panel data of rural households in Vietnam for empirical analysis. Ordinary least squares (OLS) regression with interaction terms is used for statistical analysis. Findings The findings reveal that NCDs are associated with lower levels of food consumption and diversity. These effects are more significantly evident for NCDs in the elderly or children than NCDs in adults. We also find the mitigating role of remittances in response to these consequences. Practical implications This research highlights a need for policies regarding protecting rural households against the economic burden of NCDs. Originality/value This research is one of the early attempts to explore the economic burdens of NCDs on the affected households and how remittances can mitigate such burdens.