World-renowned diabetologist Dr Gowri Ilamurugan says diabetes mellitus is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among Fijians.
She highlighted this during her presentation at the Fiji College of General Practitioners 29th annual conference at the Shangi-La Fijian Resort on Friday.
“Almost one in three Fijians are diagnosed with diabetes,” she said.
“Diabetes is a major public health problem with tremendous medical and economic burden in Fiji.
“Although there is currently no known cure for diabetes, much progress has been made over the past two decades with regards to its clinical management.
“Emergence of newer medications has drastically improved the long-term glycemic control with subsequent improvement in clinical outcomes.”
Dr Ilamurugan said eating healthy was important.
“Bread preferably wholemeal or whole grain, all vegetables, lean meat, skimmed milk and cooked rice less than 200g is encouraged when eating healthy.”
She added that awareness was critical if change was to be seen.
