Burden of Stroke Among Fiji's Older Persons

Over the years, Fiji has managed to contain most infectious diseases through its very successful immunisation program, improved hygiene and living conditions, and safe water supply. Non-communicable diseases have emerged with their resultant chronic and disabling effects. The gradual ageing of the population has also contributed to an emergence of chronic and disabling conditions related to the ageing process. There is a high prevalence of chronic disability, largely caused by preventable diseases found among persons of working age and in the young old (60-74 years). Data collected by the Ministry of Health show a rising incidence of stroke in the past 4 decades. Recent work has confirmed that a high proportion of the elderly admitted to general medical wards with disorders of cerebrovascular, cardiovascular and respiratory conditions had a high prevalence of co-morbidities. This study examines the stroke as an emerging health problem for the older population of Fiji. The data selected for this study was from the population-based CounterStroke Register for 1991-2001. Analysis was conducted to determine distribution patterns among stroke victims and projections calculated for the next 30 years. This analysis provides useful information for comparison with other less developed countries and a guide for developing preventive measures, health education and promotion programs on stroke in Fiji and among other Pacific Island countries. The results from this study will be used to improve health care service delivery for stroke victims and stimulate further research on population and health issues in the Pacific.