Why do many Fiji people die before 60

From the Fiji Times, an alarming story about health in Fiji, or lack of care of one's health. Certainly anecdotal evidence points to many heart attacks when men are in their 40s and the diabetes statistics is serious with many amputations.  Surely this is where a government needs to prioritise resources, education, and money - the health of the nation as a priority instead of jaunts overseas and bunfights and conferences at resort hotels.

8pc of populace reach 60

Tevita Vuibau
Thursday, July 11, 2013

ONLY eight per cent of Fiji's population are reaching the age of 60.

This was revealed by the Minister for Health, Dr Neil Sharma, who blamed this latest alarming statistic on NCDs like diabetes as well as the unhealthy lifestyles of many.

"There are people living in the world to the age of 90 but there are people living in Fiji to the average age of 60 or early 60s," Dr Sharma said.

"The average age of women is 65-67, for men it's 62-63 and a lot of patients are not surviving to even 60.

"You have only eight per cent of our population reaching 60."

But he did say the number was expected to double thanks to population demographics but still advised caution on the type of foods consumed by people.

"That number will double yes. If you look at the population dynamics, we are at the stage where the population will grow, there are a lot more people in their 20s and 30s but if you don't look after your health, you will find that your life will be shortened prematurely."

Dr Sharma said it was important for people to adhere to the courses of medication prescribed by doctors for diabetes and other NCDs.

He made the comment in regards to herbal medicine saying that while it was up to the patient to try alternative cures, they should not completely forego the advice of their physicians.

"We are saying that yes (be aware of the use of herbal medicine), but whatever you do, conform to what your doctor or nurse or physician advises."
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And a good news story from Labasa this time from the Fiji Sun.

Health centre receives computer set

July 10, 2013 | Filed under: Fiji News | Posted by: newsroom

By SITERI TALEITAKI

The newly-opened Nasea Health Centre, in Labasa, received a brand new computer set from a prominent businessman, Paul Jaduram, yesterday.

Receiving the donation, Divisional Medical Officer, Dr Pablo Romakin, said this computer will greatly help with work at the health centre. “It will be used for the inventory system and for issuing medicine. This will be recorded as assets for transparency and accountability. "The computer will help the staff, as they do their work manually, now it will ease their work load and patients will benefit as well,” Dr Romakin said.

Mr Jaduram is urging the Labasa community to offer whatever they can as it can save someone’s life one day.”
“Health officials approached us for assistance and we are glad to help so people can wait comfortably when they visit the centre and enjoy excellent services.Health education is important in our lives”, Mr Jaduram added.

Meanwhile Ministry of Health officials received two air-conditioning units, worth around $3000, from the Duavata Northern Crime Prevention Carnival committee, a TV set from Auto Hardware Company and benches from Haniff Industries.

The Nasea Health Centre is set to be officially opened this week by the Minister for Health, Dr Neil Sharma.