A concerning 38% of Fijians aged 30 are at risk of premature death from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) if preventative measures are not enhanced. This alarming statistic highlights the urgent health challenges that Fiji faces, particularly in relation to strokes, which are the third leading cause of death in the country, following diabetes and ischemic heart disease, according to the World Health Organization.
During a World Stroke Day event held at Suva Market, Dr. Luisa Cikamatana, an acting medical advisor, emphasized the significant role NCDs, especially diabetes, play in the prevalence of strokes in Fiji, affecting one in three people. She praised Counterstroke Fiji (CS Fiji) for their ongoing support for stroke survivors in their rehabilitation journey.
CS Fiji has been proactive in establishing a support network for stroke survivors and their families through a weekly “Talkshop” program, allowing individuals to connect and receive vital support. Elizabeth Fong, the president of CS Fiji, expressed that the age-discriminating nature of strokes is concerning for a small country like Fiji. She noted that the rising incidence of strokes over the past four decades necessitates more to be done to mitigate risks.
Established in 1988 in response to increasing stroke numbers, CS Fiji currently has about 20 members, emphasizing education, awareness, and prevention strategies for strokes, as well as providing guidance to those affected. Fong pointed out that World Stroke Day serves not only as an opportunity to raise awareness about prevention but also as a call to action to support those impacted by strokes.
She highlighted the sedentary lifestyle prevalent in the community as a significant contributor to rising stroke cases and urged for behavioral changes to combat this issue. Currently, around three people are admitted to the acute stroke unit daily in Fiji, underscoring the pressing need for awareness and intervention.
As part of the event, important signs and symptoms of a stroke were detailed, including difficulty speaking, paralysis or numbness, vision problems, and severe headaches. This information is vital in encouraging prompt medical attention when these symptoms are observed.
In conclusion, while the statistics regarding NCDs and strokes in Fiji are concerning, efforts by organizations like Counterstroke Fiji are noteworthy. By promoting awareness, education, and community support, there is hope for improving health outcomes and addressing the rising challenges posed by these diseases. This requires collective action from individuals, communities, and health authorities to foster a healthier lifestyle and enhance preventive measures.
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