80% of deaths in Fiji today are from Non Communicable Diseases and 40% of these are termed as premature deaths.
Sharing these alarming figures in Parliament today, Health Minister Ratu Antonio Lalabalavu said that the alarming numbers show no signs of slowing down.
“NCD complications such as coronary artery disease of heart attacks, stroke, kidney diseases or kidney failure, vision impairment or loss, peripheral vessel disease that require surgical interventions including amputations, brings patients to our hospitals everyday and require ongoing care in our health facilities and in our homes and communities.”
“95% of NCD’s are due to lifestyle choices, and the four main modifiable risk factors of NCD are tobacco use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet that is high in salt, sugar, fat and processed foods, and excessive alcohol consumption.”
Ratu Antonio said that the Minsitry was now engaged with other stakeholders in holding a survey across Fiji which help map a way forward for Fiji.
“With the support of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), the Ministry has commenced the 3rd STEP Survey for Fiji.”
“The survey is in line with our National Health Strategic Plan and the Annual Operational Plan. For the first time ever, the Ministry has engaged the assistance and expertise of the Fiji Bureau of Statistics in carrying out the survey on risk factor behaviours among males and females aged between 18-69 years.”
