The Ministry of Health has recorded an alarming 1279 teenage pregnancy cases between 2018 and 2021.
According to statistics released by the ministry, the data was gathered over a three-year period, showing that most cases were recorded within the iTaukei race.
The data focused on girls between the ages of 13 and 19.
Data showed that 1057 were iTaukei girls, 178 were Fijians of Indian descent and 44 were from other races who fell pregnant during this period.
“Majority of these cases within the iTaukei race were from the Central Division which recorded 636 cases, Western Division were 350 cases, Northern Division recorded 60 cases and 11 cases in the Eastern Division,” according to the ministry.
Health Minister Dr Atonio Lalabalavu said the statistics were alarming and it would take a whole government approach to nip social problems in the bud.
He said the increasing cases of HIV/AIDS in the country revealed in Parliament last week prompted the ministry to increase its community outreach and awareness programs.
