A new initiative in Fiji, called the Healthy Steps Project, has been launched with the aim of training nurses in diabetic foot care to counteract the country’s high rate of amputations. Over a three-month period, thirty-five nurses will receive specialized training to enhance their ability to detect and manage diabetes-related foot complications. This program seeks to address the urgent issue, as Fiji records an average of three amputations daily, according to Taabish Akbar, Chair of Diabetes Fiji.
The project, a collaboration between Diabetes Fiji and the Ministry of Health, is supported by $30,000 in funding from the Australian government. The initiative underscores the need for continuous training, as nurses who are vital to this effort frequently retire or migrate. Akbar acknowledges the existing challenges faced by the healthcare sector, such as resource limitations, but highlights that partnerships like this bolster Fiji’s response capabilities.
In the larger context, Fiji is grappling with a diabetes crisis, as highlighted in previous efforts to combat the disease. About 30% of Fiji’s population is reportedly affected, emphasizing the need for widespread education and preventive measures to reduce complications, such as amputations. Past initiatives have also focused on enhancing healthcare delivery and empowerment through community support groups, especially in rural areas, contributing to a sustainable approach to diabetes management.
Dr. Devina Nand and Marawa Kini, key figures in the health sector, have previously emphasized the critical need for addressing dietary and lifestyle factors, with a nationwide push towards building local healthcare capacity. The proposed establishment of a National Diabetes Centre of Excellence further reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen in-country healthcare and reduce dependency on overseas treatment.
This focused training program is part of a broader strategy to improve health outcomes by emphasizing early detection, proactive community engagement, and lifestyle education. These collective efforts present a hopeful outlook for the reduction of diabetes-related complications in Fiji. By fostering a comprehensive approach that includes continuous nurse training, resource optimization, and community-driven health strategies, Fiji moves towards a future where the burden of diabetes and its severe complications can be significantly mitigated.