Fiji's government says the hike in non-communicable diseases is putting pressure on the country's health system.
Marking World Heart Day the Health Ministry says the admission and readmission rates of patients diagnosed with heart problems have increased in recent years.
Acting Permanent Secretary for Health, James Fong Photo: Fiji Govt
Acting Health Secretary Dr James Fong says 82 percent of premature deaths in Fiji are due to non-communicable diseases, "this puts pressure on our admission rate. It also increases our requirements for appropriate tests, treatment, medicines and most importantly our rehabilitation process"
Dr James Fong said there is an urgent need for people to take care of their health.
He said the Health Ministry is looking at ways to "help young Fijians invest early in living a good life so they can have a long life".