Fiji is grappling with a significant health crisis as Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are responsible for 80 percent of all fatalities in the country and account for 40 percent of premature deaths, according to Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, the Minister for Health and Medical Services.
These alarming trends, driven largely by lifestyle factors, are reflected globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that NCDs cause 71 percent of all deaths worldwide, with low- and middle-income nations like Fiji particularly affected. Additionally, the United Nations reports that 85 percent of premature deaths from NCDs occur in these regions.
In Fiji, the leading causes of death include circulatory diseases, diabetes, and cancers, affecting both genders. The Republic of Fiji Vital Statistics Report from 2016 to 2021 reveals that NCDs are the primary cause of death across all age groups.
The pressure on Fiji’s healthcare system is substantial, with the financial impact of NCD-related deaths and disabilities estimated at 591 million Fijian dollars in 2019 alone. The main risk factors are well recognized: unhealthy diets, tobacco use, lack of physical activity, and excessive alcohol consumption, which Dr. Lalabalavu identifies as modifiable.
Other countries have effectively tackled NCDs using comprehensive strategies that could serve as models for Fiji. For example, Finland’s salt reduction campaign has led to a notable decline in hypertension rates. In Australia, strict tobacco control measures, such as plain packaging and high taxes, have significantly decreased smoking prevalence. Meanwhile, Mexico’s implementation of a sugar tax has resulted in a 7.6 percent reduction in sugary drink consumption within just two years.
Fiji’s Wellness Division is already compiling vital data to inform health promotion and prevention strategies. Nevertheless, combating the NCD epidemic calls for a unified effort, robust policy reforms, and heightened public awareness.
Making healthier choices today is essential for ensuring a healthier tomorrow.