In an effort to make NCDs screening available and accessible, the JP Bayly Trust has launched its screening program at its Lautoka branch.
The new program will be offered at the Bayly Welfare office on Nede St.
Dr Rufina Latu, a trustee of the JP Bayly Trust, said the program demonstrated the trust’s intention to join the Health Ministry in helping combat NCDs.
“Early detection through screening leads to timely interventions, prevents complications, and reduces the overall burden of disease,” she said.
Dr Latu said NCDs represented the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Fiji and the Pacific region, with a disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations.
“We know that NCDs are silent killers in our communities — 80 per cent of deaths in Fiji are attributed to NCDs, which include diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic respiratory diseases, cancers and also mental health.”
Dr Latu said the program would offer a comprehensive package of screening services at four stations.
“In the first station, we will assess NCD risk factors. In the second station, we will calculate the body mass index, or the BMI, based on the measurements of body height and weight.
“In station three, we will then calculate or measure blood glucose and blood pressure.”
Dr Latu said station four would provide an opportunity for screened individuals to discuss the results of their measurements with the health provider, a Bayly Trust staff member.
While officiating as chief guest, Western Health Services Diabetes Hub acting senior medical officer Dr Unaisi Veilawa said statistics were stark reflections of human suffering and societal burden.
Acting senior medical officer for the Western Health Services Diabetes Hub Dr Unaisi Veilawa delivers her speech during the launch of the JP Bayly Trust’s NCD program in Lautoka last week.Picture: SALOTE QALUBAU