Fiji is grappling with a significant health crisis, as Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) now constitute 80 percent of all deaths and account for 40 percent of premature fatalities in the country, according to Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, the Minister for Health and Medical Services.
These troubling figures are part of a larger global trend. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that NCDs are responsible for 71 percent of deaths worldwide, with low- and middle-income countries like Fiji particularly affected. The United Nations further indicates that 85 percent of premature deaths due to NCDs occur in these regions.
In Fiji, the leading causes of death due to NCDs include circulatory diseases, diabetes, and various forms of cancer, impacting both genders. The Republic of Fiji Vital Statistics Report from 2016 to 2021 underscores the severity of this situation, showing that NCDs are the primary cause of death across all age demographics.
The financial burden on Fijian healthcare is enormous, with the direct costs associated with NCD-related deaths and disabilities estimated at 591 million Fijian dollars in 2019 alone.
The main contributors to this crisis are well recognized: unhealthy diets, tobacco use, lack of physical activity, and excessive alcohol consumption. Dr. Lalabalavu stresses that these are all factors that can be modified.
Other nations have made strides in combating NCDs through comprehensive strategies that could serve as models for Fiji. For example, Finland’s nationwide salt reduction campaign has notably decreased hypertension levels. Australia’s stringent tobacco control measures, including plain packaging and high taxes, have led to significant reductions in smoking rates. In Mexico, the introduction of a sugar tax resulted in a 7.6 percent decrease in sugary beverage consumption within two years.
Fiji’s Wellness Division is actively collecting vital data to inform health promotion and prevention initiatives.
However, tackling the NCD epidemic requires a united effort, effective policy measures, and increased public awareness. Making healthier choices today is crucial for ensuring a healthier future.