What About Asthma In Fiji?

Last Updated on 10 years by Publishing Team

Asthma is a common condition around the world. According WHO, lung disease, including asthma, is the third biggest killer of the NCD’s.

Fiji has the second highest mortality rate from Asthma in the world. In Fiji, the rates of asthma are rising, especially in the younger population (14-20), which is a big concern.

In the past four years (2010 – 2014) Fiji’s main hospitals have seen over 2285 cases and 6.6% of these cases have resulted in death. This would not be the case if these patients knew how to properly manage their Asthma.

Why is it so bad in Fiji?

In Fiji there are several challenges that prevent people from managing their asthma properly;

  • Lack of knowledge on how to use their medication
  • Interrupted access to medication (unavailable or financial situation)
  •  Lack of ongoing treatment