Fiji is in the grip of a health crisis that experts say could shape the nation’s future if urgent action is not taken. Recent figures show that more than 67 percent of Fijian adults are overweight or obese.
Obesity is not only a question of weight or appearance. Health professionals stress it is a serious medical issue linked to chronic disease such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and even cancer. These illnesses are already common in Fiji, placing enormous strain on the health system.
Dietitian and Nutritionist, Priti Pratishma of Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH Hospitals) said the rise in obesity has become impossible to ignore.
‘’This is not just body size; it’s about life and health. We see more patients every year struggling with weight-related conditions. It is costing lives, and it is costing the nation,’’ said Pratishma.
The changing face of food
The reason behind Fiji’s rising obesity rates is complex. But one of the clearest factors, Pratishma explained, is the increasing availability of processed and ultra-processed foods.
‘’These foods are high in sugar, salt and fats. They are cheap, convenient and marketed heavily, but they are not nourishing,’’ she said.
Children, she added, are especially vulnerable. Bright packaging, cartoon characters and online ads make unhealthy products appealing from a young age.
‘’The food industry knows exactly how to capture children’s attention. Unfortunately, those choices can shape lifelong eating habits,’’ she said.
The country’s lifestyle changes have also contributed. Urbanisation means more people rely on cars instead of walking. Technology has shifted entertainment from outdoor games to screens. Traditional diets based on root crops, fresh fish, fruits and vegetables have been replaced with bread, noodles, canned meats and sugary drinks.
‘’Some of these changes are cultural, some are economic, but the end result is the same less activity and poorer diets,’’ Pratishma explained.
A burden beyond the individual
The consequences of obesity extended far beyond the individual. Families must cope with the costs and emotional toll of long-term illness. Children who are overweight face stigma, low confidence and higher risks of conditions such as asthma.
Adults are developing diabetes and heart problems at younger ages. Reducing the years they are able to work and acre for their families.
‘’This is not just a health problem; it is an economic and social problem. It affects every sector of society,’’ said Pratishma.
Prevention over cure
The call for prevention is growing louder. Treating obesity-related disease is expensive and often lifelong. But with the right interventions, experts believe the epidemic can be slower.
Pratishma emphasised that solutions must focus on support rather than blame.
‘’Obesity is not just about personal choice. It is about the environment we live in. If healthy foods are too expensive or if communities don’t have safe places to exercise, people will struggle,’’ said Pratishma.
A call to action
The challenge is immense, bit many believe it is not too late. Fiji’s strength lies in its close-kit communities and cultural traditions, which can be harnessed to promote wellness.
‘’Small steps can lead to big changes and cooking more traditional meals, choosing water over soft drinks, encouraging children to play outside, these are things families can start today,’’ said Pratishma.
Pacific Specialist Healthcare, where she works, has been offering nutrition guidance and counselling for patients struggling with weight-related conditions.
“We are here to support families who want to live healthier lives,” she said.
For Fiji, the future may depend on how quickly the country acts. Rising obesity rates threaten not only the health of individuals but the stability of the nation’s healthcare system and economy. Experts warn that without change; today’s crisis could deepen into tomorrow’s catastrophe.
But there is also hope. With coordinated effort, better education, and community engagement, Fiji could turn the tide.
“Together, we can build a healthier Fiji with one step at a time,” Pratishma said.
Priti Pratishma is located at 1 Legalega Road, Nadi (Opposite Nadi Airport). For more information or bookings, email us at diet@psh.com.fj