Dr. Devina Nand, the Head of Wellness at the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, has raised urgent concerns regarding the rising incidence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and its alarming link to lower limb amputations in Fiji. She highlighted the results of two significant studies that shed light on the scale of this issue.
The first study revealed that between 2010 and 2012, a staggering total of 938 amputations were performed due to diabetes-related complications. The second study, which examined first-time extremity amputations from 2012 to 2015, indicated that approximately 648 individuals underwent their first amputation as a result of diabetes.
Dr. Nand classified these figures as “alarming” and emphasized the profound impact diabetes has on Fijians, leading to numerous disabilities within society. “We need to pause and think about what must be done to stop this,” she stated, underscoring the need for a collective response to tackle the issue.
She further mentioned that nearly 80 percent of all deaths in Fiji are linked to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with diabetes contributing significantly to premature mortality—30 to 40 percent of these deaths occur before the age of 70. The statistics reveal a troubling age range of amputees, spanning from 30 to 91 years, indicating that many affected individuals are still within their productive working years.
Dr. Nand urged the public to critically evaluate their dietary and lifestyle choices, noting that the food we consume has ramifications on our health. Her call to action invites a broader awareness of the importance of nutrition and health in preventing chronic conditions such as diabetes.
In light of these challenges, there is hope that awareness and education around lifestyle changes can ultimately reduce the rates of diabetes and its severe complications in Fiji. As the community reflects on dietary habits and embraces healthier choices, a positive shift towards improved public health outcomes is possible.
By promoting health education and raising awareness, there is potential to significantly alter the trajectory of diabetes-related health issues in Fiji, fostering a future where fewer individuals suffer from the consequences of this chronic disease.
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