Dr. Devina Nand, who leads the Wellness division at the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, has raised concerns over the rising prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and the consequential increase in lower limb amputations. In her statement, she emphasized the urgent need for reflection and action to address this health crisis.
She referenced two studies analyzing the demographics and health complications of diabetes patients leading to amputations. The first study revealed that from 2010 to 2012, a staggering 938 amputations were performed due to diabetes-related complications. The second study narrowed the focus on first-time extremity amputations between 2012 and 2015, reporting that 648 patients underwent their first amputation as a result of diabetes.
“This situation is alarming for Fiji,” Dr. Nand stated, highlighting the significant number of individuals living with disabilities resulting from these surgical procedures. She pointed out that diabetes plays a considerable role in the nation’s struggle with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which account for nearly 80% of all deaths in the country, with 30 to 40% of these considered premature. Furthermore, she noted that many Fijians do not survive past the age of 70.
The age profile of affected patients ranges from 30 to 91 years, raising particular concern as many individuals undergoing amputations are in their productive years. Dr. Nand stressed the importance of dietary and lifestyle choices, urging citizens to reflect on the long-term impacts of their eating habits.
The call to action from Dr. Nand encourages a proactive approach to health, emphasizing that by making informed dietary choices and prioritizing preventative health measures, the alarming trend of diabetes and its complications can be reversed. There is hope that with intervention and education, Fiji may see a reduction in both the prevalence of diabetes and the necessity for amputations in the future.
In summary, the article advocates for a critical examination of health practices in Fiji, emphasizing the urgent need to combat the diabetes crisis impacting many lives across the nation.
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