Health official raises concern over NCD rates on Rabi Island

Rabi Island has the highest rate of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Cakaudrove Province, according to the island’s senior medical officer.

Dr Jone Turaga said NCDs and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) are the most prevalent health conditions affecting the Banaban community.

“NCDs, compared to the population we have, are the highest in Cakaudrove Province,” Dr Turaga said in an interview with this masthead yesterday.
“I would say NCDs and RHD.”

Non-communicable diseases include chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease, which are not transmissible from person to person.

Dr Turaga described rheumatic heart disease as a “red hot spot” on the island, explaining that it damages heart valves following rheumatic fever.

He said the island’s health centre, which has been operating for the past five years, also treats a high number of skin and respiratory illnesses.

“System-wise, skin and respiratory conditions are common,” he said.
“Skin issues include scabies and other hygiene-related diseases, while respiratory cases include coughs and asthma, which are still prevalent on the island.”

Dr Turaga linked many of the health challenges to gaps in basic services.

“The challenge is that we are still having problems with basic necessities such as water, hygiene and sanitation, which are at the root of many health issues at the moment,” he said.