The Executive Director of Diabetes Fiji, Kini Marawa, has raised concerns regarding the true prevalence of diabetes in Fiji, suggesting that current statistics may not accurately reflect the situation. He noted that the country continues to rely on a mini-STEPS survey from 2012, which indicated that 16 percent of adults were living with diabetes. With a new survey conducted between 2024 and 2025 pending release from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Marawa anticipates a significant rise in diabetes rates.
Marawa pointed out that early warning signs, such as increasing obesity levels, high blood glucose, and elevated blood pressure, suggest that the diabetes crisis is intensifying. In the last two years, Diabetes Fiji has screened approximately 15,000 individuals and engaged over 25,000 participants in education and awareness initiatives targeted at vulnerable populations in rural, remote, and maritime areas.
Diabetes is recognized as one of the most pressing health challenges in Fiji and the Pacific region. Alarmingly, the disease claims more lives globally than HIV but is not receiving the same level of attention in terms of policy-making. Marawa expressed particular concern for individuals with Type 1 diabetes, many of whom must purchase their own insulin syringes. Additionally, he emphasized the lack of access to advanced diabetes management technologies, such as continuous glucose monitoring systems.
While stressing the importance of prioritizing diabetes in the national health agenda, Marawa highlighted that government resources are predominantly focused on HIV. He urged the government to enhance primary healthcare, preventive measures, and educational efforts while ensuring the involvement of those living with diabetes in healthcare decision-making processes to achieve universal health coverage.
Marawa is calling for the prompt release of the upcoming mini-STEPS survey, which will provide crucial insights for policy-making, planning, and funding in the battle against diabetes in Fiji. This call to action underscores the critical need for a multifaceted approach to address the growing diabetes crisis effectively.
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