Act now or face rising deaths, health leaders warn on obesity crisis

Fiji is being warned that delays in tackling obesity could lead to more preventable deaths, as health leaders call for urgent national action.

“This is not just an awareness event. It is a call to act,” Minister for Health and Medical Services Atonio Lalabalavu said during World Obesity Day commemorations in Suva this morning.

He warned that obesity is driving a surge in serious illnesses, including Type 2 diabetes and heart disease, placing growing pressure on families, communities and the health system.

“These are not just numbers. These are lives at risk,” Mr Lalabalavu said.

Health officials say obesity and related non-communicable diseases continue to tighten their grip on the country, with high rates of overweight adults, low physical activity and unhealthy diets contributing to the crisis.

Globally, non-communicable diseases account for more than 74 per cent of deaths, with more than one billion people affected by obesity.

Mr Lalabalavu stressed that the issue must no longer be treated lightly, warning that failure to act now would have serious consequences.

The World Obesity Day theme, '8 Billion Reasons to Act' calls for stronger prevention, better access to care and healthier environments.

Principal Medical Officer for Diabetes Momtaz Ahmed said the response must involve the entire community.

“Lifestyle changes can make a big difference. We need everyone families, communities, and institutions to be part of the solution,” Mr Ahmed said.

He said early screening and healthier living were critical to reducing the burden of obesity and diabetes.

The Ministry of Health, in partnership with Diabetes Fiji, is rolling out community programmes, expanded screenings and awareness campaigns to address the crisis.

Health leaders say the message is clear — without urgent action, preventable diseases will continue to claim more lives.