Non communicable diseases are a major health issue in Fiji. The Ministry of Health says they account for a staggering 80 per cent of all deaths in Fiji and cause 40 per cent of premature deaths.
Chronic diseases, including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic respiratory illnesses, exact a heavy toll on individuals, families, and our economy.
Health Minister Dr Atonio Lalabalavu told Parliament earlier this year that NCDs were the leading cause of mortality for Fijians.
We have spoken many times about NCDs before and highlighted the need for us all to be engaged. Partnerships are important and should involve local businesses, health stakeholders, and, most importantly, the community.
Any effort to promote awareness about NCDs is welcomed. It is important for us as a nation. It makes sense that many people are concerned about their health.
Empowered communities mean more knowledge about NC
Ds, and more engagement. That will mean a better outcome for us all in terms of our health, and subsequently productivity on the work front.
In November 26, last year, we reported that NCDs had cost the public sector $192m in lost productivity while indirectly costing a total of $399m.
Additionally, the economic impact of NCDs in Fiji extended beyond healthcare and productivity to include social and development consequences.
We have spoken many times about laying the groundwork for community-driven initiatives, tailored to address specific local needs and challenges. We hope people will be empowered to take charge of their health.
We hope to see initiatives focused on creating awareness about factors such as diets, and better understanding and appreciation of medical options and medicines.
We need to be aware of options that are available for us. We also look up to the powers that be to consider policies and factors that will empower people and assist them to make healthy choices.
It may not be cheap for every Fijian to opt for a healthy diet right now, however, there is hope that we will all be empowered to make choices within our budgets.
The challenge is laying the foundation for more awareness right across the nation. We also look up to the powers that be to come up with ways to ease the burden on people. Considering a healthy choice is one thing.
The question is based on affordability. In saying that, we also reflect on other factors that make up the healthy living option. That includes embracing a few minutes of exercises daily and considering stress factors.
It means trying to live life to the brim and enjoying it. For whatever it is worth though, we need a change in mindset to effectively fight this NCD challenge. It is a concern!
