Late presentation of diabetic foot cases and reliance on traditional remedies is a challenge for Diabetes Fiji

The late presentation of cases of diabetic foot complications, often due to the initial reliance on traditional remedies is a major challenge for Diabetes Fiji who are committed to addressing diabetes through prevention, education and treatment.

Diabetes Fiji CEO Marawa Kini says late presentation of cases results in conditions that are more difficult and costly to treat.

He says diabetes remains highly prevalent in Fiji and many individuals are unaware of their conditions.

Kini says lack of awareness leads to complications that could have been prevented with early diagnosis and intervention.

The CEO says the financial impact of diabetes is significant and the cost of treatment of complications such as amputations and dialysis places heavy burdens on both individuals and the healthcare system.

He says Diabetes Fiji is committed to addressing these challenges and they will continue to expand their outreach in the clinical services, enhance education and foster partnerships that focus on prevention and early intervention.

Kini says their foot care program has successfully prevented 60 percent of their diabetic foot ulcer cases from amputation.

He says from 2014 to date, they have conducted 5,840 community outreach events, reaching up to 15,282 attendees.

He says their screening has touched the lives of 14,679 Fijians, helping raise awareness to detect early cases of diabetes.

Kini says one of their biggest achievements includes a foot care program, in collaboration with partners, such as the Ministry of Health.

He says the program has trained over 300 nurses and successfully prevented 60 percent of our diabetic foot ulcer cases from resulting in amputation.

The CEO says this initiative has made a substantial impact on the management, and treatment of diabetic foot complications, improving the quality of life for thousands of Fijians.

He says through their training initiative, they have empowered 263 nurses, 180 physicians, 590 nursing students and 467 medical students with the knowledge and the skills to manage diabetes more effectively.

Kini says they have now expanded their foot care services to the 15 dedicated clinics, and foot care clinics in the region.

He says in addition, they have established 48 special outpatient department clinics and introduced a foot care program in 85 peripheral health centres, significantly increasing access to care for diabetes patients across the country.