The Government says the burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), exacerbated by unhealthy lifestyles and dietary habits, continues to take a toll on our nation.
This has been highlighted by the Permanent Secretary for Trade Shaheen Ali at the Food Policy Strengthening Workshop who said this strain is keenly felt across Fiji’s health infrastructure, from medical facilities to the dedicated medical professionals – diligently and tirelessly serving the nation.
Ali said it is crucial to recognise the nuanced differences in context, healthcare system capacities, governmental initiatives, and cultural influences that shape our approaches to tackling these issues.
He said it is imperative to effectively address NCD burden not only in Fiji but across the region.
The sobering reality underscored by the World Health Organisation, Ali said that nine out of ten most obese countries in the world are Pacific Island nations.
He said this is alarming statistics underscore the urgent need to address NCDs – which not only pose grave threats to public health but also wield significant economic ramifications.
“NCDs account for 70 percent of total deaths in Fiji. Beyond healthcare costs, there are profound losses in workforce productivity due to absenteeism, presenteeism, disability, and premature mortality.”
“In addition, social welfare spending for disability benefits, social assistance programmes, and support services for affected individuals also escalate,” Ali said.
He added that addressing NCDs demands a coordinated response, spanning beyond the Ministry of Health, and extending to every facet of Government and society at large.
He said the problem of this magnitude requires a national effort, including collaboration with our development partners.
