Stroke continues to rank as one of the predominant causes of mortality in Fiji, prompting urgent calls for healthier eating and increased physical activity among its citizens. Counterstroke Fiji is intensifying its outreach efforts to raise awareness about the impact of strokes, particularly with activities planned for World Stroke Day in Suva today.
Elizabeth Reade Fong, president of Counterstroke Fiji, emphasized that today’s event is aligned with their vision of creating “A Fiji free from disability caused by stroke.” World Stroke Day, celebrated annually on October 29, serves as a global platform to highlight the importance of stroke prevention and encourage individuals to take proactive measures against the condition.
According to Ms. Fong, strokes account for approximately 81 deaths per 100,000 people in Fiji, ranking just behind diabetes and ischemic heart disease. She expressed concern over alarming statistics from the Ministry of Health, which indicate that one in three Fijians is diagnosed with diabetes, suggesting that the nation is on a perilous trajectory.
The World Health Organization has reported that nearly 38 percent of individuals aged 30 face a risk of dying from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) before reaching 70. The likelihood of experiencing a stroke increases significantly for those suffering from NCDs, such as diabetes and ischemic heart disease.
As stroke ranks as the third leading cause of death in Fiji, Ms. Fong urged Fijians to pay closer attention to their diets, engage in regular exercise, ensure adequate rest, and foster nurturing family and community environments.
To commemorate World Stroke Day, an event is being held at the Suva market from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., where attendees can receive complimentary wellness checks, including blood pressure and blood sugar testing, between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.
In summary, the initiative by Counterstroke Fiji not only aims to illuminate the serious health challenges related to strokes but also encourages a collective movement toward healthier lifestyles, which is vital for fostering a healthier future for all Fijians. This serves as a hopeful reminder that with increased awareness and proactive measures, the burden of strokes and related diseases can be significantly reduced.
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