(Fiji) 6yo amputee due to diabetes; "young children increasingly affected"

May 9, 2025, Fiji Times: Youngest amputee | Rise in young diabetics 

A six-year-old is Fiji’s youngest amputee because of diabetes.

This, according to Diabetes Fiji advocate Timaima Niumataiwalu, who also revealed that a four-year-old is the country’s youngest diabetes patient.

Young children are increasingly becoming affected by diabetes, previously thought to be a disease common among adults.

Unhealthy lifestyle choices is believed to be the cause of this growing ill among the young.

“If you look at the trend, diabetes in children is increasing,” Ms Naiumataiwalu said, adding it was important for people to seriously think about healthy eating.

“I would like to advise pregnant mothers, parents and guardians of young children to please take care of your health.

“Eat healthy foods and stop consuming unhealthy products, like snacks.”. . .

Chief executive Marawa Kini said the special camp brought together 22 confirmed young participants from the Young Diabetes Fiji program, out of 60 registered in the Central Division.

He said the initiative coincided with the school holidays, providing an ideal time for learning, empowerment and community connection.

“The objectives of the Young Diabetes Camp is to educate and empower children and adolescents living with diabetes through fun, interactive sessions,” Mr Kini said.