NON-Communicable Diseases (NCDs),  which are not spread through infection or through other people, include cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, cancers and chronic respiratory diseases.

These diseases are the leading cause of death in the Pacific and have contributed to more than 80 per cent of deaths in Fiji, with 40 per cent being premature deaths.

The majority of these deaths were recorded in the age group between 45 and 59 years.

In order to address NCDs and promote public health, the Government has implemented several initiatives.

Some of the key government initiatives on NCDs in Fiji are;

National NCD Strategic Plan

Fiji has developed a comprehensive National NCD Strategic Plan that outlines goals, objectives and strategies to prevent and control NCDs in the country.

The Strategic Plan, developed by the Ministry of Health for 2020-2025, states that their strategy focuses on the health sector, working with external stakeholders and other ministries to ensure the health and well-being improve in all aspects of people’s lives.

Tobacco control measures

Fiji has implemented various tobacco control measures, such as tobacco advertising bans, smoke-free policies and increased taxes on tobacco products, to reduce smoking rates and tobacco-related NCDs.

On June 30 of last year, The Fiji Times reported the Government had announced the implementation of new taxes.

Part of these new taxes was an increase in excise tax on tobacco to 5 per cent as an effort to curb NCDs.

Wellness Centre

The Fijian Government has established a Wellness Centre to provide health education, screening services and support for individuals at risk of living with NCDs.

This centre offers resources and programs to promote healthy living and prevent NCDs.

According to the Ministry of Health official website, the Wellness Centre was established in February 2012 by the merging of the Non- Communicable Diseases control unit and the National Center of Health Promotion.

Its main goal is to reduce premature deaths (that means for people below the age of 60) due to NCDs.

Healthy living campaigns

The Government conducts public awareness campaigns and initiatives to promote healthy living, including encouraging physical activity, healthy eating and regular health screenings to prevent NCDs.

One such initiative is the Fiji Policy on Food and Nutrition Security which aims to ensure all Fijians have access to safe and healthy food that meets their dietary needs and cultural preferences.

The Fiji Times reported on March 27 of this year that Health Minister Dr Atonio Lalabalavu said the Fij Policy on Food and Nutrition Security aimed to ensure all Fijians had access to safe and healthy food, that included their dietary needs and cultural preferences.

By implementing various initiatives and policies, the Government hopes to address the growing burden of NCDs in the country. || NCDSS || NCDSS