Young Diabetes Fiji (YDF), conducted free medical check-up for students  as part of their 2015 Namosi outreach project.

The project was in collaboration with Aspire Network, Fiji Police Force Bluelight, 2014 Fijian Youth Parliament and the LDS Church

Two schools in Mau Village that were given free check-ups were Mau Primary School and Ro Camaisala Primary School where about 300 students were screened for diabetes, weight and height.

The students were also advised on diet and exercise and other healthy living practices.

YDF president Shiwanjani said information on cases of concern that were identified had been forwarded to the local health centres for further testing.

“This is a pro-active approach to prevent the rise in  diabetes among young children; we  are trying to identify the unknown cases and also those at high risk of getting diabetes in future,” the president said.

She said they would work with local health and educational ministries to help in the prevention and management of diabetes among children.

“We are looking at screening close to 10,000 school children by the end this year, provided we are able to secure adequate sponsorship to fund the project.”

Meanwhile, the executive director of Aspire Network, Kaajal Kumar, said: “As a young people’s organisation, we value Young Diabetes Fiji as a partner in the development of future generations.

“Our staff, volunteers and the 2014 Youth Parliaments had a moving experience working with YDF during the screening of children in schools.”

She said they looked forward to supporting YDF in its future programmes.

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