Concerns have been raised regarding the health outcomes of Fijians and their impact on the nation’s productivity. This was emphasized by Stephen Ndegwa, the World Bank’s country director for Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands, during the launch of the Fiji Health Sector Review. The report points to a significant increase in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer, labeling the situation as a “true epidemic” in Fiji.
Ndegwa highlighted that the incidence of NCDs is nearly double that of other lower-income countries, attributing 80 percent of deaths in Fiji to these chronic conditions, often occurring at younger ages. This alarming statistic signifies a heavy burden not only on the healthcare system and families but also on the economy as a whole.
The report also reveals a stagnation in life expectancy in Fiji, which has only seen a two-year increase from 1990 to 2020, rising from 66 to 68 years. This is significantly lower than the life expectancy improvements observed in other lower-income nations, which recorded a 15 percent increase during the same period. Ndegwa stresses that Fiji is lagging behind by nearly nine years in life expectancy compared to other nations.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Biman Prasad echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the urgent need to tackle the NCD crisis. He warned that if investments are not made now, the economic repercussions could be unmanageable in the future, urging citizens to fully grasp the dire health situation.
The report recommends a substantial investment of $50 million annually for the next 70 years to effectively address the rise of NCDs. Currently, health expenditure in Fiji is approximately 4 percent of GDP, which is just below the World Health Organization’s targets. Without proactive measures and strategic discussions to enhance the healthcare system, the costs associated with untreated NCDs are predicted to rise sharply, further straining the economy.
Prasad cautioned that the alarming pace at which NCDs are increasing underscores the necessity for early investments and interventions to prevent further deterioration. In addition to improving healthcare facilities and NCD-focused strategies, there is a call for policies that make healthy food options affordable and accessible.
The health of the population is intrinsically linked to economic productivity, meaning that addressing these health challenges is critical for both. There is an urgent need to prioritize health investments, raise awareness, and foster healthier lifestyles in order to combat this epidemic. The path ahead demands strong political will to drive meaningful change.
This situation presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Fiji. With collective efforts towards improving health outcomes, there is hope for a healthier population, increased productivity, and ultimately, a robust economy.
In summary, Fiji faces a critical health crisis, necessitating immediate and sustained action to address the burgeoning epidemic of non-communicable diseases.
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