WITH non-communicable diseases accounting for approximately 80 per cent of all deaths in Fiji and imposing an estimated annual economic cost of $591 million, health advocates are urging policymakers and corporate leaders to treat prevention as a vital economic investment.
Diabetes Fiji Incorporated executive director Kini Marawa said separate research indicated that diabetes-related productivity losses alone cost the nation between $106 million and $145 million annually through premature mortality, absenteeism, and reduced workplace performance.
Households also face severe financial strain from repeated medical appointments, specialised care, and lost income when preventable complications occur.
“A nation that neglects preventive healthcare will eventually pay a much greater price through illness, disability, lost productivity and human suffering,” he said.
Mr Marawa said Diabetes Fiji is appealing to the Government for reliable supplies of essential medicines and insulin, while calling on the private sector to implement workplace wellness programs, healthy food options, and annual partnerships that safeguard Fiji’s workforce and long-term economic stability.
