Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are increasingly recognized as a critical health issue in Fiji, with the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) co-deputy chair Ratu Suliano Matanitabua calling attention to their devastating impact. At the launch of the JP Bayly Trust NCD screening program in Suva, he praised the initiative for providing free screenings focused on hypertension and diabetes, noting that these diseases are among the most prevalent and lethal in the country.
Ratu Suliano emphasized that NCDs are not merely medical concerns but are deeply intertwined with community health and cultural identity, particularly affecting the iTaukei population. He pointed out that this situation necessitates a collective response, aligning with Fiji’s National Development Plan to implement wellness strategies and promote traditional activities to counteract these health challenges.
Previously, Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu highlighted alarming statistics indicating that NCDs account for around 80% of all deaths in Fiji, a figure underscored by Dr. Devina Nand, who stressed the importance of preventive measures along with community engagement. This reflects a broader global trend where NCDs disproportionately affect low- and middle-income countries.
As Fiji battles this health crisis, there are hopeful signs of change. Efforts to increase health literacy and community-based initiatives have begun gathering momentum, seeking to transform the health landscape toward more preventative care. The proactive involvement of community leaders and organizations presents an opportunity to reclaim health, emphasizing a unified approach to education and wellness.
In summary, the launch of the JP Bayly Trust’s NCD screening program presents both a critical response to the escalating health crisis in Fiji and a hopeful vision for a healthier future, encouraging collaboration among various stakeholders to address the root causes and implications of NCDs.
Leave a comment