The Fiji Government is providing subsidies for dialysis costs through the Kidney Dialysis Subsidy Programme.

However, Fijians need to be aware that in the long run, the treatment of kidney failure is still an expensive exercise.

During the launch of the World Kidney Day celebration at the Kidney Hub in Nadera, Health and Medical Services Permanent Secretary Dr Jemesa Tudravu reminded people that exercising regularly, reducing the consumption of salt and sugar and eating healthier locally grown foods instead of processed and canned foods can help prevent chronic kidney disease.

He urged everyone to take action now to fight against kidney disease and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

Tudravu mentioned that there has been an increase in the number of patients with kidney failure in Fiji and that it has become the fourth leading cause of death in the country.

Diabetes and hypertension are the main causes of kidney failure in Fiji.

Dr Anis Ta’eed, a consultant from Fiji Dialysis Centre, also spoke at the launch and called on Fijians to get screened for kidney diseases as they are mostly detected in their late stages.

This is a reminder to everyone to focus on the prevention of non-communicable diseases and get regular check-ups with health centre doctors to detect these diseases at their early stages.