Nearly 38% of Fijians at the age of 30 are currently at risk of dying before reaching 70 due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) if effective preventative measures are not put in place. This alarming statistic highlights significant health challenges facing the nation, particularly concerning stroke, which is the third-leading cause of death in Fiji after diabetes and ischemic heart disease, according to the World Health Organization.
During a World Stroke Day event held at Suva Market, Dr. Luisa Cikamatana, acting medical advisor, emphasized that NCDs, especially diabetes, play a major role in increasing stroke risk among Fijians, with one in three individuals affected. She expressed gratitude towards Counterstroke Fiji (CF) for their ongoing support to stroke survivors during their rehabilitation process.
CF has actively been creating a robust support network for both survivors and their families, facilitating a weekly “Talkshop” program that provides stroke survivors with vital connection and support opportunities. Elizabeth Fong, president of CS Fiji, stressed the worrying trend of rising stroke occurrences, particularly because strokes do not discriminate by age in the small nation of Fiji. She noted that the increasing incidence of strokes over the past four decades underscores the necessity for intensified efforts to alleviate stroke risk factors.
Established in 1988, Counterstroke Fiji was formed in response to the growing number of stroke cases, and it currently has about 20 members. The organization focuses on educating the public about stroke awareness and prevention while providing guidance for those affected by strokes. Fong declared that World Stroke Day serves not only as a crucial awareness platform but also as an urgent call to action to offer essential support for stroke sufferers.
She pointed out that many individuals lead sedentary lifestyles, which heightens the risk of strokes, noting that approximately three patients are admitted to the acute stroke unit each day in Fiji. Fong reiterated the importance of embracing healthier lifestyle choices to combat the growing prevalence of strokes.
The observance of World Stroke Day serves as a vital reminder of the importance of addressing this public health issue.
Key signs and symptoms of a stroke include difficulty speaking or understanding, sudden numbness or paralysis—often affecting one side of the body—vision problems in one or both eyes, and severe headaches that may be accompanied by dizziness or nausea.
In summary, the health crisis surrounding stroke in Fiji calls for community awareness and lifestyle alterations to reverse these worrying trends. Through supportive initiatives and education, there is hope that the growing challenges posed by NCDs can be mitigated and ultimately overcome.
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