The Methodist Church is calling on the people of Fiji to take greater responsibility for their health amid an alarming rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) affecting communities nationwide. Reverend Dr. Semisi Turagavou expressed concern over the increasing number of young individuals suffering from preventable health issues, including serious ailments that can lead to limb loss.
Highlighting the dual nature of health as both a personal and spiritual obligation, Rev. Dr. Turagavou emphasized the message that caring for one’s body is essential. He remarked, “It is important to take care of yourself. Because our body is the temple of God.” This perspective encourages individuals to treat their bodies with the utmost care and reverence, recognizing them as sacred creations.
Counterstroke Fiji President Elizabeth Fong supported this sentiment, stressing the importance of early recognition of health risks. She underscored that understanding these risks enables individuals to make healthier choices, which is vital in preventing strokes and other NCDs. Fong noted the coalition’s efforts toward wellness, stating, “We all need to know what we’re doing and we can figure that out much better.”
Both the Methodist Church and Counterstroke Fiji advocate for a robust approach to preventing NCDs that involves individual accountability as well as community initiatives. By fostering awareness and encouraging healthier lifestyles, they hope to mitigate the troubling trends in health that are currently impacting many Fijians.