More adolescents in Fiji are also being diagnosed with diabetes, according to Diabetes Fiji executive director Kini Marawa.
While he did not reveal how many adolescents have been diagnosed with the disease, however, he said Fiji was now observing a worrying trend.
“The disease was once most common in adults aged 45 and above. Now, many people in their 20s, 30s, and even teenagers are being diagnosed with type two diabetes.”
He said this change was linked to unhealthy diets, lack of physical activity, obesity, and stress.
“The rise of gestational diabetes in young mothers is another red flag, as it not only affects the mother but also increases the child’s risk of developing diabetes later in life.”
He said traditionally, diabetes in Fiji was most common in adults aged 45 and above.
“Screenings conducted through our Young Diabetes Fiji program confirm that individuals in their 20s and 30s are presenting with type two diabetes.”
He is calling for urgent prevention efforts in schools, youth programs, and maternal health services to help stop the growing trend.
