More than 80 per cent of deaths in Fiji are attributed to non-communicable diseases, according to the Health Ministry.
Between 30 and 40 per cent were premature deaths. The ministry stated it recorded 5858 non-communicable-disease-related deaths annually.
“Both involve building up the good habits of exercise and a healthy diet, and good attendance to medical follow-up and ongoing treatment for those with chronic disease,” the ministry stated.
Over the past decades, the ministry stated cases of NCDs continued to rise and there was a need for lifestyle changes to be made at a community-wide and individual level.
It stated that the COVID-19 pandemic clearly demonstrated the need for people to choose healthier lifestyles.
“Choices around physical activity, food portions and food choices are now more important than ever before. This virus and its many variants will remain endemic for a long time to come and the consequences will reduce but over a length of time.
“Even if you have a chronic disease, making the healthier choices outlined above will make you stronger and more resilient in the face of this virus.
“Employers and community leaders can help to mainstream the support system for vulnerable persons by creating a list of vulnerable persons in their communities, providing support to help them secure good access to medical care, ensuring oversight so that the vulnerable are tested early when they develop flu-like symptoms and provide a supportive environment to ensure that the sick are encouraged and empowered to seek treatment and not delay in seeking health care.
“In this way, we are working together to protect the most vulnerable, and to direct healthcare service towards those who need it most in our community.”
