Disturbing health and welfare concerns to be considered in a high-level forum in the Solomon Islands
Two stories published in the Island Sun newspaper today, Thursday, ironically published disturbing news of health issues that require urgent attention by people themselves and government involvement.
The first story related to the increasing problem of diabetes, heart disease, strokes and obesity occurring in the Solomons Islands due to people eating an inappropriate diet containing too much fat and sugar rather than following a diet rich in vegetables, fruit and leafy salads.
The story went on to reveal the National Referral Hospital (NRH) was now critically short of beds because on the numbers of hospital patients suffering from NCD induced diseases.
The second story was equally alarming and related the fact that the Solomon Islands has the highest number of ill-fed children in the Pacific.
Quoting from that particular story it said:
�A report from UNICEF says 33 out of 100 children in Solomon Islands are stunted. In addition, only 30 out of 100 houses have proper water and toilet facilities. Lack of sanitation facilities are said to contribute to child stunting.
�For example, Concern Worldwide says availability of diverse food, the way a child is fed and cared for access to clean drinking water, proper health care and hygiene and sanitation can all affect a child�s development. This in turn will impact greatly on the opportunities for children to learn and develop and will also slower their growth rate.�
Because such findings are highly worrying, it is said a high-level group of various stakeholders will be meeting tomorrow, 26 October, to discuss the obstacles to the development of a child.
Quoting the Island Sun newspaper again -
�The forum will look at ways where stakeholders involved can reach an agreement whereby planning, budgeting and implementation of early childhood development is well coordinated while at the same time, work in coordination with the different sectors in the country.
��Also, they will be discussing high-quality, equitable, and inclusive early childhood development in the Solomon Islands.
�This in turn aims to increase commitments to invest in the young citizens. Furthermore, Ministry of Education Human Resources Development (MEHRD) adds, investment in the development of the countries youngest citizens are one of the most cost-effective strategies for a healthier and more productive population.
�Moreover, MEHRD says, highlighting studies on child development will yield dividends.
��This will be through a stronger workforce, better health, and lower crime rates. �
One must certainly hope the forum will help in bringing about early change to the welfare and development of local children, but also give added voice for the need to reduce NCD�s and guidance on proper health measures the community can, and must, take to live healthier lives and to reduce the burden of health care on the hospital services.
Yours sincerely
Frank Short
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