Over one-third of adults in Fiji are currently tobacco smokers, with a noticeable disparity in smoking rates between men and women. The Ministry of Health’s Head of Wellness, Dr. Devina Nand, reports that both manufactured and hand-rolled cigarettes are the prevalent forms of tobacco consumption among the population.
Most smoking prevalence is observed in adults aged 18 to 59, which underscores the urgent need for early prevention strategies. Dr. Nand emphasizes that implementing targeted health programs at all educational levels—from primary schools to universities—is vital to dissuade individuals from taking up smoking and to encourage those who do smoke to abstain.
Furthermore, Dr. Nand highlighted the necessity of expanding and decentralizing cessation clinics to provide better support for individuals looking to quit smoking. The recently conducted Fiji STEPS Survey 2025 also shed light on significant regional variances, noting that the Western Division features the highest percentage of adults who have never smoked.
The Ministry of Health is advocating for robust policy measures aimed at reducing tobacco use and safeguarding public health. Initiatives such as raising taxes on manufactured cigarettes and promoting health-focused programs in schools are deemed essential to combat tobacco-related issues effectively.
The ongoing focus on educational outreach and policy adjustments presents a hopeful step toward decreasing smoking rates in Fiji, ultimately fostering a healthier future for its citizens.
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