In a concerning revelation from Rabi Island, children as young as five have been identified with dangerously high sugar levels, with one case reaching a staggering level of 22. Dr. Mikaele Mua, the acting medical superintendent at Labasa Hospital, has expressed alarm over the rising instances of early-onset diabetes among young Fijians. According to Dr. Mua, the increasing prevalence of diabetes in children is strongly linked to poor dietary choices and lifestyle habits.
Dr. Mua highlights that there are two main types of diabetes affecting children. Type One diabetes, which is generally genetic, prevents the body from producing insulin, while Type Two diabetes, increasingly observed in younger individuals, occurs when the body cannot produce sufficient insulin to regulate blood sugar levels effectively. The rise in early diabetes diagnoses suggests a worrying trend that could lead to serious health complications, such as vision impairment and kidney issues, if not addressed.
This alarming situation mirrors a wider public health crisis in Fiji, where non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have been on the rise due to habits such as excessive sugar consumption, particularly from sugary beverages. Senior Nutritionist Kriti Chand previously noted that many Fijian children are consuming sugary drinks that exceed the World Health Organization’s recommended sugar intake. The alarming statistics indicate that NCDs account for approximately 80 percent of all deaths in the country, significantly affecting children’s health and wellbeing.
Health officials are urging families to adopt healthier food choices and encourage children to engage in regular physical activity to combat the rise of such diseases. Optimistically, through community efforts and health education, there is a potential for positive change. With rising awareness and proactive initiatives, Fiji can strive towards improving the health outcomes of its younger generations by fostering healthier habits and reducing the risk of diabetes among children.
The combination of heightened awareness, advocacy for better nutritional practices, and community involvement can create a supportive environment for healthier lifestyle choices, ultimately improving public health standards in Fiji.
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