Too much kava, too little movement

Health Minister Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu has urged Fijians to drink kava in moderation and remain physically active, warning that lifestyle choices highlighted in a new national health survey show the country is heading in the wrong direction.

Dr Lalabalavu made the comments yesterday at the launch of the Fiji STEPS Survey Report 2025 at the Grand Pacific Hotel.

The survey revealed that almost all adults in Fiji – 98.5 per cent – now live with at least one non-communicable disease (NCD) risk factor, with nearly half facing three or more.

It also showed that 56 per cent of Fijians had consumed kava in the past 30 days, with men significantly more likely to participate in kava sessions at 71.3 per cent, compared with 39.5 per cent of women.

Asked about kava consumption, Dr Lalabalavu said the choice to drink kava ultimately came down to personal responsibility.

“You drink it in moderate amounts, and ensure that if you drink it, continue with your daily activities of exercise, walking, and so forth,” he said.

The survey showed that kava sessions were often accompanied by unhealthy behaviours. More than half of kava drinkers, 51.2 per cent, reported smoking or using smokeless tobacco during or shortly after drinking kava, while 58 per cent said they consumed salty or sweet snacks.

Regionally, the Eastern Division recorded the highest kava consumption at 80.1 per cent, compared with 49.9 per cent in the Western Division.

Dr Lalabalavu also referred to an earlier observation by Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna on kava consumption trends.

“I think there’s more consumption than planting done, in terms of prices of kava going up,” Dr Lalabalavu said.

He said the survey data painted a concerning picture of the nation’s health.

“The data is there. It is overwhelming and shows that we are not heading in the right direction,” he said. “So we need to take responsibility.”