Editorial: Tackling the silent killers

Fijians face an alarming health crisis: Non-Communicable Diseases ( NCDs) now account for 80 per cent of all deaths in the country and 40 per cent of premature deaths, as highlighted by Dr Atonio Lalabalavu, the Minister for Health and Medical Services.

These grim statistics, rooted in lifestyle choices, are echoed worldwide. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), NCDs are responsible for 71 per cent of all global deaths, with low- and middle income countries like Fiji bearing the brunt.

The United Nations also reports that 85 per cent of premature deaths from NCDs occur in these regions.

In Fiji, circulatory diseases, diabetes, and cancers top the list of fatal ailments, impacting both men and women. The Republic of Fiji Vital Statistics Report 2016 to 2021 reveals the extent of the problem, with NCDs leading in deaths across all age groups.

The burden on Fiji's healthcare system is immense, with the cost of NCO-related deaths and disabilities estimated at 591 million Fijian dollars in 2019 alone.

The root causes are well-known: poor diet, tobacco use, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption. Dr Lalabalavu emphasises these are modifiable risk factors.

Other nations have successfully mitigated NCDs through comprehensive strategies that Fiji could adopt. For instance, Finland implemented a nationwide salt reduction campaign, significantly lowering hypertension rates.

Australia's rigorous tobacco control policies, including plain packaging and high taxes, have drastically reduced smoking rates.

Mexico introduced a sugar tax, resulting in a 7.6 per cent drop in sugary drink consumption within the first two years.

Fiji's Wellness Division is already gathering crucial data to guide health promotion and prevention programmes.

However, addressing the NCD epidemic requires a collective effort, strong policy interventions, and public awareness.

We must make healthier choices today to secure a healthier future.

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