The Public Health Association of Fiji (PHAF) has welcomed the release of the Fiji 2025 STEPS Survey, warning that its findings confirm non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have reached crisis levels and require urgent, sustained national action.
PHAF President Dr Lepani Waqatakirewa commended the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) and the Government for placing strong evidence at the centre of health decision-making.
“The findings confirm what families and communities across Fiji are experiencing daily — NCDs represent a national health, social and economic emergency that demands collective action,” Dr Waqatakirewa said.
The survey shows 98.5 per cent of adults aged 18 to 69 live with at least one major NCD risk factor, with nearly half carrying three or more. More than two-thirds of adults are overweight or obese, hypertension and diabetes remain widespread, and long-term treatment and control are “unacceptably low”.
“These are not simply matters of individual choice,” Dr Waqatakirewa stressed. “They are shaped by food systems, environments, commercial determinants and policy settings.”
PHAF strongly endorsed MHMS’ call for a whole-of-society response, including strengthening primary health care, introducing effective food and fiscal policies, expanding wellness programmes, and using STEPS data as an accountability tool.
Dr Waqatakirewa urged decisive leadership, stronger cross-sector partnerships, and community-centred solutions. “Failure to act decisively will cost lives, productivity and national resilience. Success will secure a healthier future for generations.”
PHAF reaffirmed its commitment to work with Government and partners to turn evidence into lasting action.
