About 80% of deaths in Fiji are caused by non‑communicable diseases and this number may continue to grow if we do not take a proactive approach toward our lifestyle.
This was highlighted by the Minister for Health, Dr. Ifereimi Waqainabete while launching the 2019 Island Chill Suva Marathon.
Waqainabete says that the challenge in fighting NCD’s remain in the area of common and intermediate risk factors such as obesity and high blood pressure, nutrition and physical activity.
He says the key is the improvement of health literacy in the hopes that Fijians will be better informed in making behavioral or lifestyle choices daily.
Waqainabete adds that events such as this Marathon is a perfect example of how organizations can collaborate to influence and motivate the public to participate in activities that will benefit their health.
Meanwhile, Suva Marathon Club President Gina Houng Lee says that their objective is to promote healthy lifestyles through running and also to encourage runners and athletes to improve their running times and commitment to long distance running.
The 2019 Island Chill Suva Marathon will be held on the 27th of July.
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