The annual economic burden of diabetes in Fiji amounts to a staggering $145 million, a figure that has raised concerns among health officials. Dr. Devina Nand, the Head of Wellness at the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, emphasizes the pressing need for economic interventions to address this critical public health issue.
Dr. Nand highlights the substantial impact that Type 2 diabetes has on not only the quality of life of those affected but also on Fiji’s overall economic productivity. The figure of $145 million encapsulates losses attributable to death, absenteeism, and presenteeism—where employees are present at work but not functioning at their full potential due to health issues.
The cost associated with diabetes care is notably significant, being at least 3.2 times greater than the average healthcare expenditure per person. This expense can inflate to nearly 19.4 times higher if complications arise from the condition. Dr. Nand passionately questions, “If this doesn’t motivate us to act, then what will?”
This stark portrayal of diabetes costs in Fiji serves as a wake-up call for policymakers and the community to collaborate on innovative strategies and interventions aimed at mitigating these expenses and improving public health.
In summary, the insights shared by Dr. Nand are a call to action for Fiji’s government and citizens to prioritize health initiatives that can effectively address the growing diabetes crisis and ultimately enhance both individual well-being and national economic performance. There is hope that with increased awareness and strategic measures, Fiji can turn the tide on diabetes and foster a healthier future for its population.
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