Diabetes is increasingly straining the healthcare system, highlighted by Sanjit Patel, chairman of the Hope Centre. He emphasized that hospitals are becoming overwhelmed and resources are being drained as the disease progresses. The financial burden and care requirements associated with diabetes present significant challenges.
Mr. Patel pointed out the alarming trend of amputations, noting that many cases are diagnosed too late, leading to dire consequences. He revealed that four amputations occur daily at the main hospital in Suva, significantly altering the lives of those affected. Patients require extensive support following amputations, leading to increased dependency and lifestyle changes.
The cost of amputations varies, with below-knee procedures priced around $650 and above-knee surgeries costing approximately $1,200. This financial strain complicates the situation further.
Northern divisional medical officer Dr. Tiko Saumalua confirmed that the impact of non-communicable diseases like diabetes is felt consistently across all divisions, including the North. He noted that surgeons in Labasa, Savusavu, and other regions are contending with complications from diabetes daily, where amputations take a considerable proportion of their surgical time. The rate of these procedures continues to rise, underlining the urgency of addressing this health crisis.
In response to this growing issue, Dr. Saumalua mentioned that the Health Ministry is actively promoting healthier lifestyles as a proactive measure to mitigate the increasing number of diabetes cases and associated amputations.
Adding a personal touch to the conversation is Vincent Chute, a retired civil servant who lost his leg to diabetes last year. He urges the public to heed warnings about the disease. Since his amputation, Mr. Chute has faced significant emotional and financial struggles, affecting him deeply and prompting feelings of despair. However, with the support of his family, he is resiliently moving forward, equipped with a new prosthetic limb.
Mr. Chute advocates for the importance of maintaining a proper diet and being mindful of sugar intake. His grave message to the public is a call to take diabetes warnings seriously and focus on early intervention. He is a testament to surviving against the odds and encourages others to maintain hope and prioritize their health to prevent such devastating outcomes.
These accounts emphasize the critical need for awareness, early diagnosis, and lifestyle changes to combat the growing issue of diabetes and its severe complications. The collaborative effort between health officials and the community could lead to improved outcomes, inspiring a positive path forward in tackling this pressing health challenge.
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