The Fiji National University believes that health research adds high value to the society.

The University in the recent past has done a number of research studies in various health related areas which has been used as an important tool for decision making by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.

While officiating at the launch of the Pacific Island Health Research Symposium (PIHRS) in Suva this morning, FNU Pro-Vice Chancellor Research (PVC-R) Professor Mohini Singh said health research improves the care and treatment of people.

“It can provide important information about disease trends and risk factors, outcomes of treatment or public health interventions, functional abilities, patterns of care, and health care costs and use,” said Professor Singh.

The PVC-R commended the FNU’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS) highlighting the hard work and effort the school has put in to compile various health related research with very less resources available to them.

“CMNHS is already engaged in high quality research that focuses on the health and wellbeing of people in Fiji and the Pacific. Research is required to help save lives, protect the environment and raise living standards,” said Professor Singh.

FNU Vice Chancellor Professor Nigel Healey said the symposium has become an avenue that encourages emerging Pacific health researchers to share their research findings in a supportive environment.

“As Fiji’s national university, we will continue to conduct research in the health sector. Overall, we will be working with the Government, the NGOs to address research issues pertinent to Fiji and in the region,” said the Vice Chancellor.

Professor Healey said there’s a number of growing health issues in the pacific which needs to be addressed.

“Through the research we have found that some health issues are caused by the changing lifestyles and diet, others result from climate change,” he added.

The FNU Vice Chancellor highlighted that the tertiary institution is taking a lead role in creating health awareness amongst its staff and students.

“We had a health and wellness screening for the staff at all our campuses where we did blood pressure, blood sugar, breast and prostate cancer screening. By doing this we were able to educate and inform our staff,” he said.

Professor Healey further revealed that the FNU will soon introduce a comprehensive medical insurance benefit for all its staff.

Meanwhile the two-day symposium will end in Suva tomorrow.