Fijians are facing a growing crisis with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), yet many individuals remain reluctant to implement the necessary lifestyle changes to prevent these conditions. This alarming information was presented by Dr. Unaisi Veilawa, the acting senior medical officer at the Western Health Services Diabetes Hub, who pointed out a troubling disconnect between awareness and actionable steps.
Recent data from a survey conducted by the Diabetes Hub revealed that a staggering 98.5 percent of adults aged 18 to 69 are affected by at least one risk factor for NCDs. Dr. Veilawa emphasized the urgency of moving from mere awareness to active participation in health improvement.
In response to this challenge, interventions targeting NCDs have been incorporated into the 2025–2029 National Development Plan. This strategy marks a transition from general advice to a more proactive approach that includes active enforcement and clinical tracking of health outcomes. According to Dr. Veilawa, the approach in Fiji is distinctive as it employs a “settings approach,” wherein health initiatives are seamlessly woven into everyday environments.
This innovative method involves integrating health discussions beyond medical facilities, ensuring that health promotion takes place in the various settings where Fijians live, learn, work, and play. Screening programs are implemented in these areas to identify high-risk individuals, who are subsequently directed to clinics focused on wellness and prevention rather than only treatment.
The overarching aim is to maintain the functionality of Fiji’s healthcare system while empowering individuals to take charge of their health. By adopting this comprehensive approach, Fijians are given the tools and resources needed to foster better health outcomes within their communities.
This initiative reflects a hopeful shift towards improving public health in Fiji, paving the way for better health awareness and ultimately, a more robust healthcare system.
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