Dr. Devina Nand, Head of Wellness at the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, has expressed urgent concerns regarding the rising rates of diabetes mellitus (DM) and the resultant lower limb amputations in Fiji. She highlighted two significant studies examining the profiles of patients who required amputations due to diabetes.
Diabetes mellitus, characterized by inadequate control of blood glucose levels, poses a serious health risk in Fiji. One study revealed that between 2010 and 2012, there were 938 amputations performed, while a separate analysis from 2012 to 2015 reported 648 patients experiencing their first amputation because of diabetes.
Dr. Nand described the situation as alarming, noting the substantial number of individuals living with disabilities stemming from these surgeries. She drew attention to the broader implications, pointing out that nearly 80% of deaths in Fiji are attributed to non-communicable diseases, with 30 to 40% of these being premature, including those caused by diabetes.
The statistics indicate that many patients needing amputations are within the productive age demographic, as their ages ranged from 30 to 91, and many Fijians do not live beyond the age of 70. Dr. Nand emphasized the importance of critically evaluating dietary and lifestyle choices, as everything consumed carries potential health impacts.
This message serves as a call to action, encouraging both individuals and the community to reflect on their health choices and work towards reducing the prevalence of diabetes and its severe complications.
In summary, Dr. Nand’s insights highlight the urgent need for public awareness and preventative strategies to combat the increasing burden of diabetes in Fiji. With concerted efforts in education and lifestyle changes, there is hope for improved health outcomes and a reduction in the number of amputations linked to this chronic disease.
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