Stroke continues to rank as one of the leading causes of death in Fiji, prompting a call to action for residents to embrace healthy eating habits and maintain an active lifestyle. This message was emphasized by Counterstroke Fiji, which is intensifying its efforts to raise awareness about stroke’s impacts among the Fijian population, especially during today’s World Stroke Day event in Suva.
Elizabeth Reade Fong, the president of Counterstroke Fiji, highlighted that the event aims to promote the organization’s vision of a Fiji free from disability due to stroke. “World Stroke Day on October 29th serves as a global platform for stroke awareness initiatives,” Ms. Fong stated, noting that this year’s campaign centers on the critical need for stroke prevention and encourages everyone to take proactive measures.
Statistics reveal that strokes account for approximately 81 deaths per 100,000 individuals in Fiji, positioning them as the third leading cause of death after diabetes and ischemic heart disease. With the Ministry of Health indicating that one in three Fijians is diagnosed with diabetes, the nation is confronting a significant health risk. The World Health Organization projects that 38 percent of individuals aged 30 are at risk of dying before reaching 70 due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Ms. Fong emphasized that individuals with NCDs, such as diabetes and ischemic heart disease, face increased risks of suffering a stroke. She urged Fijians to be mindful of their dietary choices, exercise routines, and the importance of nurturing familial and community environments focused on health and wellness.
The World Stroke Day event will take place at the Suva market today from 11 AM to 2 PM, offering the public free wellness checks, including blood pressure and blood sugar testing from 12 PM to 2 PM.
As preventive measures are at the forefront of this initiative, there is hope that increased awareness and education will encourage healthier lifestyles among Fijians, potentially reducing the incidence of strokes and enhancing community health overall. This proactive approach not only benefits individual health but also strengthens societal resilience against chronic diseases.
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