More than 4,000 individuals in Fiji are currently registered with Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD), with over 70% of those affected being under the age of 30. This alarming statistic highlights a significant public health issue, as RHD is the second leading cause of death among young people aged 5 to 29 in the country.
Addressing this critical concern during a World Heart Day event at Hilton Special School in Suva on Monday, Health Ministry chief medical adviser Dr. Luisa Cikamatana emphasized the urgent need for collective action among governments, NGOs, schools, families, and communities to combat this disease. She reported that the financial burden on Fiji’s health system due to hospitalizations and surgeries related to RHD exceeds $19 million annually.
Dr. Cikamatana called for a united effort to protect every heartbeat and secure the future of children affected by RHD, which demonstrates the power of community in addressing health crises. The celebration included participation from students of the Hilton Special School, showcasing their commitment to raising awareness through placards and personal stories.
Among the speakers was Jonathan Lord, a rheumatic heart patient and vice-president of Heart Heroes Youth Fiji, who shared his journey and underscored the importance of awareness about RHD. This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to highlight RHD in schools and communities, as each classroom statistic reveals that one child is likely affected by this condition.
In recent discussions, Erini Tokarua, manager of Heart Heroes Fiji, reiterated that the urgency of addressing RHD cannot be overstated, particularly as the disease is preventable but continues to claim lives among the youth.
With initiatives like World Heart Day, there is hope that increased awareness and community involvement will lead to improved health outcomes for those affected by RHD in Fiji. The commitment to education and proactive healthcare measures is paving the way for a healthier future for the younger generations, ultimately fostering a resilient society capable of addressing its health challenges.