The leading cause of death in Fiji is Ischaemic heart disease.
Fiji, like many nations globally, grapples with significant health challenges where non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are major contributors to mortality. Recent health statistics reveal that conditions affecting the cardiovascular system are particularly prominent, leading to a substantial number of deaths. Understanding these primary causes is essential for developing effective public health strategies focused on prevention and treatment.
Key Mortality Causes in Fiji
Comprehensive health data identifies several conditions as the predominant causes of death in Fiji, encompassing both chronic illnesses and, more recently, infectious diseases.
Below is a detailed overview of the leading causes of death, along with their respective mortality rates:
| Cause of Death | Mortality Rate (per 100,000 population) |
|---|---|
| Ischaemic heart disease | 222.8 |
| COVID-19 | 173.2 |
| Diabetes mellitus | 170.2 |
| Stroke | 73.2 |
| Kidney diseases | 36.3 |
Ischaemic heart disease, also known as coronary artery disease, occurs when the blood flow to the heart muscle is reduced due to the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries. This can result in serious cardiac events such as heart attacks. Its high mortality rate underscores the critical importance of initiatives focused on cardiovascular health.
COVID-19 emerged as a significant cause of death, reflecting the widespread impact of the global pandemic. This infectious disease, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, primarily affects the respiratory system but can lead to severe complications and fatalities, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Diabetes mellitus is another critical health concern, with complications stemming from uncontrolled high blood sugar levels contributing to a substantial number of deaths. Chronic high blood sugar can damage various organs over time, including the kidneys, eyes, nerves, and heart, leading to severe health complications.
Furthermore, stroke, which occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients, can lead to immediate brain damage or death. Kidney diseases also represent a notable cause of mortality, often associated with other chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
Effectively addressing these leading causes of death necessitates a comprehensive approach involving public health strategies that promote healthy lifestyles, facilitate early detection and management of chronic conditions, and ensure robust healthcare infrastructure.
