Luisa Cikamatana, acting chief medical advisor, has emphasized the preventability of amputations resulting from diabetes. Speaking at the launch of the Healthy Steps Project and a foot care workshop in the Central Division, Cikamatana highlighted the significant impact of diabetes on individuals and families across the nation. She remarked that each statistic represents a person whose life, family, and future are profoundly affected. However, she offered hope by asserting that advancements in primary healthcare, early detection, continuous follow-ups, and well-trained nursing professionals can significantly combat this widespread health issue.
As part of the initiative, 30 nurses who successfully completed a specialized three-month foot care training program will now take on crucial roles within healthcare systems. These nurses will assist in identifying early risks, providing essential foot care, educating families, and preventing minor issues from escalating into severe complications. Dr. Cikamatana reiterated that this initiative aligns with the national goal of reforming primary healthcare to be more people-centered, preventive, and proactive.
Cikamatana encouraged these nurses to apply their newfound skills diligently in their clinics, health centers, and communities. She stressed that every patient interaction is an opportunity to reinforce the health system and urged healthcare workers to learn swiftly, communicate openly, and commit fully to their positions as primary healthcare champions.
This endeavor is a part of broader efforts by healthcare professionals such as Dr. Devina Nand and Dr. Sela Koyamaibole, who have previously underscored the alarming rates of diabetes-related amputations. They have advocated for early intervention and the importance of education in tackling this crisis. Past reports have shown troubling statistics related to amputations due to diabetic complications, marking a significant public health crisis in Fiji.
With non-communicable diseases accounting for nearly 80% of deaths in Fiji—and a substantial proportion linked to diabetes—urgent action is imperative. However, the Healthy Steps Project stands as a hopeful initiative promoting wellness, preventive care, and community involvement as key strategies to reverse these alarming trends and enhance the health outcomes for the Fijian population.