Dr. Devina Nand, the Head of Wellness at Fiji’s Ministry of Health and Medical Services, has raised an urgent call to action regarding the growing number of diabetes mellitus patients requiring lower limb amputations in Fiji. She underscored the need for reflection on preventative measures, as studies indicate a troubling trend in amputations associated with diabetes.
Dr. Nand revealed that between 2010 and 2012, there were 938 amputations performed, and from 2012 to 2015, another study reported that 648 patients underwent their first amputation due to diabetes. This trend poses significant consequences, as many of those affected end up living with disabilities.
With non-communicable diseases (NCDs) linked to nearly 80 percent of all deaths in Fiji, and between 30 to 40 percent of these being premature and diabetes-related, Dr. Nand highlighted the pressing nature of this health crisis. The data illustrates that patients affected by diabetes-related amputations ranged in age from 30 to 91, with many in their productive years. This reality is compounded by the disturbing statistic that a majority of Fijians do not live beyond 70 years.
Dr. Nand emphasized the importance of diet and lifestyle choices, recognizing that what we consume can have significant health implications. She called for a collective pause for deeper reflection on how to confront this growing epidemic in order to improve overall health outcomes in Fiji.
This situation, while alarming, also opens the door for community awareness and proactive health initiatives aimed at preventing diabetes and its related complications. A renewed focus on education regarding healthy dietary practices and lifestyle changes could positively influence the population’s health and reduce the incidence of amputations in the future.
In summary, Dr. Nand’s remarks serve as both a warning and a rallying cry for Fiji to take actionable steps toward combating the rise of diabetes and improving the quality of life for its citizens.
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