Fiji’s Diabetes Dilemma: Can More Clinics Stop Amputations?

Fiji faces a significant public health challenge, with diabetes-related amputations occurring at an alarming rate of one every 12.5 hours. This pressing issue has prompted Kini Marawa, the executive director of Diabetes Fiji, to advocate for the urgent expansion of specialized foot-care clinics across the country.

Currently, there are only ten foot-care clinics operating nationwide, a number deemed insufficient to meet the increasing demand stemming from the growing diabetes epidemic. Marawa emphasizes the necessity for each division to have high-risk foot clinics staffed by trained nurses, enabling early intervention before infections escalate to the point of requiring amputations. “Most amputations are preventable if infections are detected and treated early,” he stated, highlighting that many individuals delay seeking help until their conditions have dramatically worsened.

In addition to expanding clinic access, Marawa urges significant policy changes from the Ministry of Health to combat the rising tide of non-communicable diseases, with a particular focus on early detection. He proposes implementing mandatory metabolic screenings in secondary schools to identify the many young individuals living with undiagnosed diabetes. He notes that early identification can prevent severe long-term complications, stressing the importance of proactive health measures.

Marawa also advocates for increased taxation on sugary beverages, suggesting that the revenue generated should directly support outreach and prevention programs targeting non-communicable diseases. Furthermore, he proposes shifting healthcare delivery from divisional hospitals to community-based Sub Hub ‘Wellness Hubs’ to enhance monitoring and compliance with treatment regimens. “We need to move care closer to the people. Better daily monitoring and support will save limbs and lives,” he asserted.

Without prompt action and policy reform, the rate of amputations in Fiji is expected to surge, directly impacting families and placing additional burdens on the national healthcare system. The situation calls for a collaborative response to improve health outcomes and ultimately safeguard the well-being of the community.