Fiji has initiated a significant step in its fight against noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) with the launch of the latest national STEPS Survey. This comprehensive survey aims to transform health data into actionable insights, providing an updated overview of critical health risks faced by the population. Key areas of focus include high blood pressure, excessive salt consumption, inadequate fruit and vegetable intake, and tobacco use.
At the launch event, national leaders emphasized their commitment to utilizing evidence-based approaches to enhance Fiji’s health system. The data collected from the STEPS Survey will guide strategic decisions in prevention, primary care, and public health regulations, targeting improvements in environments where people live, learn, and work.
Collaboration and Commitment to Health
The Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services collaborated closely with The George Institute for Global Health throughout the survey process. Dr. Bindu Patel, a Senior Research Fellow at The George Institute, led her team in providing critical technical expertise in areas such as survey design, implementation, analysis, and reporting. Dr. Patel remarked, “This survey is about Fiji, for Fiji. When used well, the data empowers better decisions, smarter investments, and stronger health systems that can prevent disease before it starts and improve the lives of those already affected by noncommunicable diseases.”
The findings from the STEPS Survey will also support ongoing initiatives in Fiji, particularly those backed by The George Institute’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) funded RESist-NCD program. Collaborative efforts with Fijian partners—including the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Fiji National University, and the Consumer Council of Fiji—are designed to foster healthier food environments and enhance prevention policies.
Targeting Health Improvements through Data
Among the initiatives being explored is the feasibility of increasing the availability and affordability of potassium-enriched iodised salt. This approach aims to simultaneously reduce sodium intake while increasing potassium levels, both of which are vital for lowering blood pressure. The STEPS data will inform these initiatives, helping to refine strategies for improving health outcomes in the community.
By centering communities and evidence in decision-making, the new STEPS Survey supports the development of practical policies and programs aimed at improving and safeguarding the health of Fijians. This effort reflects a broader commitment to addressing the pressing challenges posed by noncommunicable diseases throughout the region.
The successful implementation of the STEPS Survey marks a crucial milestone in Fiji’s public health landscape, paving the way for informed actions that can significantly enhance the wellbeing of its citizens.
