It is concerning that people as young as 14 and 30 years old have lost their lives last year due to complications related to diabetes.
Diabetes Fiji Executive Director, Marawa Kini shared this with fijivillage News when asked about the growing number of cases and the increasing threat diabetes poses to people in Fiji.
Kini stressed that these deaths could have been prevented through proper care and early intervention — including maintaining a healthy diet, regular physical activity, managing mental health and adhering to medication.
Kini also revealed the alarming rate of diabetes-related amputations, with major hospitals like CWM, Lautoka and Labasa performing one every 8.5 hours.
He says that the youngest amputation case in Fiji involves a 7-year-old boy who underwent the process at 5-years-old.
Kini says there are many complications associated with diabetes and according to the data provided by Pacific Eye Institute, younger people living with diabetes have blurry vision.
He further states that they have seen an increase in their screening program, and they are conducting follow-up for those identified as being at high risk.
The Executive Director explained the differences between the three main types of diabetes, Type 1 which people are born with; Type 2 which is largely linked to lifestyle factors and gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when blood sugar levels become elevated.
Kini also urged diabetes patients to avoid injuries or cuts and to seek immediate medical attention if they do occur, to prevent serious complications.
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