C-POND

The WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention and Management is a collaborative research centre between the School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences, Fiji National University and Deakin University (WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention), Melbourne, Australia which was established in 2009. Formerly, known as Centre for the Prevention of Obesity and Non-Communicable Diseases (C-POND) who received visibility and recognition by national and international authorities for its work on Non-Communicable Diseases.

The designation as WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention and Management was officiated in 2019 by the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ifereimi Waqanibete, who witnessed the recognition of the work of a centre that has been strong ally for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services helping to implement the mandated work and achieve its current goals.

C-POND is infact the institution in the Pacific Island Countries to receive WHO Collaborating Centre status that was a major achievement for the College of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences. WHO gains access to top institutions worldwide and the institutional capacity to support its work while C-POND will gain greater attention from the public and academic institutions for the health issues they work on.

WHO designated the C-POND as a WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention and Management, to:

• assist the WHO in supporting the prevention and management of NCDs,
• assist the WHO in supporting countries in the Pacific to develop policies on healthy diets and physical activity; and
• to conduct research on unhealthy diets and physical inactivity to support the implementation of evidence-based policies in line with WHO recommendations.

Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention and Management is situated at the Tamavua Campus in Suva, linking it closely with its teaching and training programs and supporting PhDs, Masters and post-graduate students, research projects and training programs.

VISION

Creating the evidence, knowledge exchange and research capacity needed to reverse the Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) and obesity crisis in the Pacific islands.

MISSION

• To conduct solution-oriented research on obesity and NCDs. The focus is on finding the solutions to reduce the very high prevalence and burden of obesity and NCDs in the pacific.
• To disseminate the research findings and translate them into policies and practice. The usual process of research dissemination through publications and conference presentations is accompanied by strong knowledge exchange linkages with government agencies, NGOs, private sector organizations, and communities to translate the research findings from C-POND and international studies into policies and practice in the pacific.
• To build research capacity in obesity and NCD prevention. This includes the supervisor of Masters students and Doctoral students as well as training for research staff.
• To conduct other research-related activities which further the aims of C-POND.

CHIPSR

Background

The Center for Health Information Policy & Systems Research (CHIPSR) was established in 2010, following the increase realization that Health Systems in the Pacific needed evidence based research to ensure the development of regional and national policies that addressed the long term sustainability of health systems, and the provision of equitable health services for the Pacific. The vision of CHIPSR was to be the most admired center of excellence in Health Systems and Health Policy in the Oceania region.

CHIPSR mandate is to perform research in human health and well-being for economically sustainable community and society and its focus is on health financing, health information, and health systems and health policy.

Purpose of CHIPSR Reference Group

CHIPSR Reference Group are intended to provide strategic direction and advice and nurture the development of CHIPSR. Reference Group is intended to be advisory and not managerial and is not expected to consider day to day management and procedural issues. It has no decision-making authority, but can make recommendations for the staff and management of the center to consider.

The purpose or role of the CHIPSR reference group are to:

• Provide strategic advice and direction to the CHIPSR
• Participate in strategic planning meetings for CHIPSR
• Identify and notify CHIPSR abut collaborations and research opportunities and projects within the CHIPSR mandate.
• Provide technical expertise when possible to CHIPSR in the form of advice, mentoring, reviewing of documents, technical working groups, etc.

Terms of membership of the CHIPSR Reference Group

Membership of the CHIPSR Reference Group carries no financial benefits, and membership is based on professional attributes of individuals, rather than their organizational affiliation or country of residence.

Reference group members are expected to be working within the Pacific Islands on health financing, health information, and health systems and health policy.

• Be active in CHIPSR research
• Have a track record of published academic research and research funding
• Be willing to provide their expertise and advice on CHIPSR activities, without any expectation of remuneration or other benefit (such as inclusion in publications or research proposals)
• Participate in at least one teleconference or face to face meeting of the Reference Group per year

The membership of the reference group is not automatically renewed. It will be reviewed annually at the first meeting of each year (to be held in the first quarter).

The Head of CHIPSR will review membership of the reference group prior to this meeting, to check members’ compliance with the requirements. The membership of any person who no longer meets the above requirements will not be renewed. A person whose membership is withdrawn will be informed in writing by the current Reference Group chairperson and Head of CHIPSR. The letter will outline the grounds on which decision to withdraw membership were made.

Members may also withdraw at any time by indicating this in writing to the Reference Group chairperson and the Head of CHIPSR. There is no maximum timeframe for an individual’s membership of the Reference Group providing they continue to meet the above expectations of members.

Meetings

A minimum of at least two Reference Group meetings will be held per year. Where feasible, one meeting should be held face-to-face, in collaboration with a regional event likely to be attended by many of the members.

The Reference Group Chairperson will be responsible for organization of the meeting in collaboration with the Head of CHIPSR, and for informing all members of the date and arrangements for the meeting. The Head of CHIPSR will disseminate an agenda and any related documents to all members prior to the meeting. The Reference Group Chairperson will set the agenda for a meeting in discussion with the Head of CHIPSR.

The secretary and Head of CHIPSR will produce minutes for review by the Chairperson. The Chairperson will then share them with the Reference Group members for any corrections before they are finalized. At the subsequent meeting, the minutes will be endorsed/ accepted.

As the group is not a decision making body, there is no requirement for a minimum quorum for any meeting to take place. However election of the Chair of the Reference Group will require at least 75% of the members to participate. Similarly decisions on new members and renewals of Reference Group members will require at least 50% of reference group members to participate.

Members of the Reference Group may make contributions and comment via face to face meetings, teleconference or via email. Comments and input may be sought at any time from the group, by the CHIPSR team.

Chairperson of the Reference Group

The Chairperson of the Reference Group will be elected each year, at the first meeting of the year, following the review of the members of the Reference Group. All members of the Reference Group (excluding CHIPSR staff) are eligible to make nominations for the chair and to vote for the Chairperson.

The incumbent Chairperson will first call for nominations for chairperson. If there is more than one nomination, then members will be asked to vote (one vote per member). They will email their vote to the CHIPSR secretary who will total and provide response to the reference group (anonymized). The nominee with the most votes will be chairperson for the year. In the case of a face to face meeting, paper-based voting will be used.

PacS-RHRC

The Pacific Sexual & Reproductive Health Research Centre (PacS-RHRC) represents a new and dynamic approach to the Sexual & Reproductive Health (SRH) research issues and challenges of the Pacific Island Countries. In keeping with the Pacific move towards integration of HIV & STI into the larger SRH agenda, PacS-RHRC, in the College of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences (CMNHS), Fiji National University, is dedicated to:

• Conducting, facilitating, mentoring and teaching SRH research which will provide evidence-based information and knowledge to influence and support national and regional policies, programs and projects to promote healthier lives for Pacific Islands Countries & Territories (PICTs);
• Developing and increasing research capacity of Pacific Islanders towards sound research that will inform the Pacific response to SRH;
• Identifying through research, evolving best SRH practices for the PICTs which are country-specific, culture and gender-sensitive and sustainable for the Pacific’s future generations.

PacS-RHRC will fulfill its roles to the best of its ability to CMNHS, FNU and the wider Pacific Islands in several ways:

• Conduct, facilitate, provide technical support and teach SRH academic, behavioral surveillance, clinical, and operational research;
• Develop and support SRH research capacity of Pacific Islanders;
• Publish research information as articles in peer-reviewed journals;
• Attract research funding and grants for SRH research independently or with collaborating partners;
• Disseminate research findings widely through national, regional and international workshops, seminars, conferences and publications;
• Develop and maintain partnership with disadvantaged and marginalized communities to provide evidence-based information and knowledge towards appropriate SRH policies and strategies for improved healthy reproductive lives;
• Assist in the translation of research findings into relevant, sustainable outcomes for studied communities;
• Be a repository of SRH research in the region by gathering, storing and disseminating SRH reports to interested individuals, partners and key stakeholders; and,
• Develop and expand SRH Networks within and outside the Pacific region.

PacS-RHRC collaborating Partners

PacS-RHRC will conduct research and disseminate findings independently or work in partnership with collaborating such as academic, technical, donor, NGOs institutions, and other key stakeholders such as governments and special communities in the Pacific Islands Countries & Territories. PacS-RHRC currently enjoys the support and collaboration of a group of regional and international community, technical and academic institutions  such as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) through its Western Pacific Office, Suva; International Planned Parenthood (IPPF) through its Pacific Office in Suva, the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) through its Public Health Program, based in Suva, Pacific AIDS Foundation (PIAF), the Oceania Society for Sexual Health & HIV Medicine (OSSHHM), and the Women’s & Children’s Health Knowledge Hub (Crossmap) a partnership between Burnet Institute’s Centre for International Health, the Menzies School of Health Research in Darwin, and the Centre for International Child Health at the University of Melbourne. PacS-RHRC is keen to develop collaborating networks for the development and advancement of SRH research and capacity at CMNHS, FNU and the Pacific region.

PacS-RHRC Research Areas & Interests

PacS-RHRC is a Pacific regional organisation and will conduct research in the Pacific region on the following issues:

1. Knowing your STI and HIV epidemic
2. Family Planning
3. Safe motherhood (antenatal, perinatal & postnatal) issues & practices
4. Sexual practices of man, women and youths in the Pacific
5. Access & barriers to condoms and other contraceptives uptake
6. Sexual & reproductive health, rights, practices and the law
7. Health care workers as SRH service providers;
8. Sexual Violence and Violence Against Women and Children

CONTACT US:

Ms Avelina Rokoduru

Centre Coordinator

Email: avelina.rokoduru@fnu.ac.fj

Tel: (679) 3233 257 – Direct

For more information on what we do, access CMNHS Research online at www.fnu.ac.fj

CDRC

Communicable Disease Research Centre  (CDRC)

Background

In the midst of a global pandemic, the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS) has established a centre that targets communicable diseases.  The Communicable Disease Research Centre (CDRC) has been formed through collaboration between CMNHS and the Otago University, Global Health Institute (OGHI) with support from Mercy Hospital in Dunedin, New Zealand. The Centre will produce Pacific led world class research in communicable diseases for the Pacific region. It also aims to enhance the capacity for research training and support for student research specifically in Communicable Diseases. This includes advancing knowledge in the pathogenesis, treatment and prevention of communicable diseases in Pacific island countries. The CDRC presents an important ambition of the CMNHS to not only educate Pacific health workers, but to generate the information that guides health practices in the region.

The CDRC launched virtually on December 3, 2021, with the inauguration of its Reference Group members. The Centre presents an opportunity for the College to position itself as a regional Institution that identifies and addresses priority infectious diseases in the region, whilst also building research training, capacity and quality in coming years through collaborations with Ministries of Health, and organizations and institutes involved in infectious disease research.

Vision:
Pacific led world class infectious diseases research

Mission:
The Communicable Disease Research Centre (CDRC) will work in collaboration with partners to conduct research that addresses the most pressing infectious diseases problems of the Pacific region

Values:
Bula vinaka(wellbeing); Loma vata (harmony); Cakacaka vata (working together); Sautu (good fortune); Cakacaka vaka dodonu (ethical practice); Doudou (boldness);  Uasivi (excellence)

Strategic Goals 2021-2022:

• Establish Foundations at Fiji National University (FNU)
• Establish research and stakeholder collaborations
• Build research capacity with collaborators
• Propose, conduct and publish research projects in communicable disease

Pacific Health Observatory

About PHO

The Pacific Health Observatory(PHO) is an initiative of the Fiji Institute of Pacific Health Research(FIPHR) which aims to support Pacific countries through the dissemination and translation of health research.

The PHO also serve as an online data repository for health research data and routinely collected health data from the Pacific. The establishment of the PHO was supported by the Australian Government as part of the response to COVID-19.

PHO currently based at the Fiji Institute of Pacific Health Research, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science.

Mission

The mission of the PHO is to improve the health of Pacific islanders and reduce inequalities through the provision of relevant, objective and high-quality health intelligence to support decision making and actions for health.

The objectives of the PHO are to:

1. Provide an expanding knowledge base to inform health decisions in the region. This will primarily be through a repository for data and information that can be used to inform decisions for health in the region.
2. Provide relevant and high-quality health intelligence to ensure that decisions made regarding health in the region are based on the best possible information and will deliver the best possible outcomes for Pacific populations.
3. Strengthen the use of existing health data in the region to inform decision making and integrate data from a wide range of sectors.
4. Promote accessibility to health information and intelligence for both health workers and policy makers in the region.
5. Advocate for addressing health inequalities and unmet health needs in the region.

Functions

Benefits of PHO

The PHO will present numerous benefits to the staff and students of the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at the Fiji National University. Some of the key benefits are as follows:

• Strengthen and support the translation of research outputs into teaching and curriculum development within the college
• Provide evidence base Pacific related health information for staff and student anticipating to conduct research in the future
• Strengthen research capability of staff and students
• Support primary and secondary research conducted by staff and students
• Support staff and student in publishing their research into Pacific related health Journal or any other Journal.
• Support staff and student in translating research findings into policy and practise to improve health service deliveries in their own settings.
• Provide field placement to students

Current Research

CDRC

C-POND

PacS-RHRC

CHIPSR

WISH PROJECT

RISE PROJECT

Data Repository

FNU-CMNHS FIPHR Research Repository is a collection of the Fiji National University’s College of Medicine Nursing and Health Science’s intellectual or research output.

The FNU-CMNHS FIPHR Research Repository is currently for CMNHS academic, comparable professional, technical, and research support staff; CMNHS students enrolled at the University (especially Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates); and CMNHS adjunct appointments to share the research and scholarly outputs of the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences written by the CMNHS researchers or joint collaboration with other research institutions and university.

Any correspondence concerning this specific repository should be sent to eprint-cmnhs@fnu.ac.fj.

Data Repository Link: https://repository.fnu.ac.fj/

Contact Details

CDRC Staff Contact Details

PHO Staff Contact Details

Senior Administration Officer

AO Research Centres

AO Research Unit & CHREC

PUBLICATIONS JOURNAL ARTICLES

Below are list of publication release by our research in respective years

2011

1. Dunford E, Webster J,Metzler A, CzernichowS,NiMhurchu C,Wolmarans P, Snowdon W et al. International collaborative project to compare and monitor the nutritional composition of processed foods. European Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation 2011
2. Fotu K. F, Millar. L, Mavoa. H, Kremer. P, Moodie M, Snowdon W, Utter. J, Vivili. P, Schultz.JT, Malakellis.M, McCabe.MP, Roberts.G, Swinburn.B Outcome results for the Ma’alahi Youth Project, a Tongan community-based obesity prevention programme for adolescents. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12:41-50
3. Sacks G, Rayner M, Stockley L, Scarborough P, Snowdon W, Swinburn B. Applications of nutrient profiling: potential role in diet-related chronic disease prevention and the feasibility of a core nutrient-profiling system. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2011; 65:298-306
4. Snowdon W. Letter to the Editor: Challenges of NCDs in the Pacific Islands: the need for evidence and data. Asia Pacific Journal of Public Health 2011; 23(1):110-111
5. Snowdon W, Moodie M,Schultz J,Swinburn B.Modelling of potential food policy interventions in Fiji and Tonga and their impacts on non-communicable disease mortality. Food Policy 2011; 36(597-605)
6. Snowdon W, Negin J, Moodie. M, Building an economic case for food interventions in the Pacific. Pacific Health Dialogue 2011; 16: 24-29
7. Swinburn B, Millar L,Utter J,Kremer P,Moodie M,Mavoa H,Snowdon W, McCabe M, Malakellis M,de Courten M,Waqa G et al. The Pacific Obesity Prevention in Communities project: project overview and methods. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12: 3-11
8. Thow A. M, Snowdon W, et al. The role of policy in improving diets: experiences from the Pacific Obesity Prevention in Communities food policy project. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12: 68-74
9. Kremer P, Waqa G, et al. Reducing unhealthy weight gain in Fijian adolescents: results of the Healthy Youth Healthy Communities project. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12(2): 29-40
10. McCabe M, Mavoa H, Ricciardelli L, Waqa G, Fotu K, Goundar R. Sociocultural Influences on Body Image among Adolescent Boys from Australia, Fiji and Tonga. Journal of Applied Social Psychology 2011; 41(11): 2708-2722
11. McCabe M, Mavoa H,Ricciardelli l, Waqa G, FotuK,Goundar R et al. Sociocultural agents and their impact on body image and body change strategies among adolescents in Fiji, Tonga, Tongans in New Zealand and Australia. Obesity Reviews 2011;2(2): 61-67
12. Schultz J. T, Moodie M, Mavoa H, Utter J, Snowdon W et al. Experiences and challenges in implementing complex community-based research project: the Pacific Obesity Prevention in Communities project. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12: 12-19

2012

1. Dunford E, Webster J,Metzler A, CzernichowS,NiMhurchu C,Wolmarans P, Snowdon W et al. International collaborative project to compare and monitor the nutritional composition of processed foods. European Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation 2011
2. Fotu K. F, Millar. L, Mavoa. H, Kremer. P, Moodie M, Snowdon W, Utter. J, Vivili. P, Schultz.JT, Malakellis.M, McCabe.MP, Roberts.G, Swinburn.B Outcome results for the Ma’alahi Youth Project, a Tongan community-based obesity prevention programme for adolescents. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12:41-50
3. Sacks G, Rayner M, Stockley L, Scarborough P, Snowdon W, Swinburn B. Applications of nutrient profiling: potential role in diet-related chronic disease prevention and the feasibility of a core nutrient-profiling system. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2011; 65:298-306
4. Snowdon W. Letter to the Editor: Challenges of NCDs in the Pacific Islands: the need for evidence and data. Asia Pacific Journal of Public Health 2011; 23(1):110-111
5. Snowdon W, Moodie M,Schultz J,Swinburn B.Modelling of potential food policy interventions in Fiji and Tonga and their impacts on non-communicable disease mortality. Food Policy 2011; 36(597-605)
6. Snowdon W, Negin J, Moodie. M, Building an economic case for food interventions in the Pacific. Pacific Health Dialogue 2011; 16: 24-29
7. Swinburn B, Millar L,Utter J,Kremer P,Moodie M,Mavoa H,Snowdon W, McCabe M, Malakellis M,de Courten M,Waqa G et al. The Pacific Obesity Prevention in Communities project: project overview and methods. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12: 3-11
8. Thow A. M, Snowdon W, et al. The role of policy in improving diets: experiences from the Pacific Obesity Prevention in Communities food policy project. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12: 68-74
9. Kremer P, Waqa G, et al. Reducing unhealthy weight gain in Fijian adolescents: results of the Healthy Youth Healthy Communities project. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12(2): 29-40
10. McCabe M, Mavoa H, Ricciardelli L, Waqa G, Fotu K, Goundar R. Sociocultural Influences on Body Image among Adolescent Boys from Australia, Fiji and Tonga. Journal of Applied Social Psychology 2011; 41(11): 2708-2722
11. McCabe M, Mavoa H,Ricciardelli l, Waqa G, FotuK,Goundar R et al. Sociocultural agents and their impact on body image and body change strategies among adolescents in Fiji, Tonga, Tongans in New Zealand and Australia. Obesity Reviews 2011;2(2): 61-67
12. Schultz J. T, Moodie M, Mavoa H, Utter J, Snowdon W et al. Experiences and challenges in implementing complex community-based research project: the Pacific Obesity Prevention in Communities project. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12: 12-19

2013

1. Snowdon W. The role of policy in improving public health. Fiji Journal of Public Health 2013; 1(2)
2. Snowdon W. Guest Editorial. Fiji Journal of Public Health 2013; 1(2)
3. Waqa G, Mavoa H, Snowdon W. The Translational Research on Obesity Prevention In Communities: Evidence Informed Decision Making in Fiji. Fiji Journal of Public Health 2013; 1(2)
4. Snowdon, W & Thow A.M.Trade policy and obesity prevention: Challenges and innovation in the Pacific Islands. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (2): 150-8. doi: 10.1111/obr.12090
5. Ni Mhurchu C, Vandevijvere S, Waterlander W, Thornton L, Kelly B, Cameron A, Snowdon W, Swinburn B, for INFORMAS. Monitoring the availability of healthy and unhealthy foods and non-alcoholic beverages in community and consumer retail food environments globally. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1): 108-19. doi: 10.1111/obr.12080
6. Friel S, Hattersley L, Snowdon W , Thow AM, Lobstein T, Sanders D , Barquera S, Mohan S, Hawkes C, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Lobstein T, Ma J, Macmullan J, Neal B, Sacks G, Sanders D, Swinburn B, Vandevijvere S, Walker C for INFORMAS. Monitoring the impacts of trade agreements on food environments. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1): 120-34. doi: 10.1111/obr.12081
7. Swinburn B, Vandevijvere S, Sacks G, Kraak V, Snowdon W, Hawkes C, Barquera S, Friel S, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Ma J, Macmullan J, Mohan S, Monteiro C, Rayner M, Sanders D, Walker C, for INFORMAS. Monitoring and benchmarking government policies and actions to improve the healthiness of food environments: a proposed Government Healthy Food Environment Policy Index. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1): 24-37. doi: 10.1111/obr.12073
8. Neal B, Sacks G, Swinburn B, Vandevijvere S, Dunford E, Snowdon W, Webster J, Barquera S, Friel S, Hawkes C, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Lobstein T, Ma J, Macmullan J, Mohan S, Monteiro C, Rayner M, Sanders D, Walker C, for INFORMAS.  Monitoring the levels of important nutrients in the food supply. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1): 49-58. doi: 10.1111/obr.12075
9. Swinburn B, Sacks G, Vandevijvere S, Kumanyika S, Lobstein T, Neal B, Barquera S, Friel S, Hawkes C, Kelly B, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Ma J, Macmullan J, Mohan S, Monteiro C, Rayner M, Sanders D, Snowdon W, Walker C, for INFORMAS (International Network for Food and Obesity / non-communicable diseases Research, Monitoring and Action Support): overview and key principles. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (10):1-12. doi: 10.1111/obr.12087
10. Brinsden H, Lobstein T, Jane Landon J, Kraak V, Sacks G, Kumanyika S, Swinburn B, Barquera S, Friel S, Hawkes C, Kelly  B, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Ma J, Macmullan J, Mohan S, Monteiro C, Rayner M, Sanders D, Snowdon W, Vandevijvere S, Walker C, for INFORMAS. Monitoring policy and actions on food environments: rationale andoutline of the INFORMAS policy engagement and communication strategies. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1):13-23. doi: 10.1111/obr.12072
11. Sacks G, Swinburn B, Kraak V, Downs S, Walker C, Barquera S, Friel S, Hawkes C, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Lobstein T, Ma J, Macmullan J, Mohan S, Monteiro C, Rayner M, Sanders D, Snowdon W, Vandevijvere S, Walker C, for INFORMAS. A proposed approach to monitor private sector policies and practices related to food environments, obesity and non-communicable disease prevention. Obesity Reviews 2013;14 Suppl (1):38-48. doi: 10.1111/obr.12074
12. Kelly B, King L, Baur L, Rayner M, Lobstein T, Monteiro C, Macmullan J, Mohan S, Barquera S, Friel S, Hawkes C, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Lobstein T, Ma J, Macmullan J, Neal B, Sacks G, Sanders D, Snowdon W, Swinburn B, Vandevijvere S, Walker C,for INFORMAS. Monitoring food and non-alcoholic beverage promotions to children. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1):49-58. doi: 10.1111/obr.12075
13. Rayner M, Wood A, Lawrence M, Ni Mhurchu C, Albert J, Barquera S, Friel S, Hawkes C, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Lobstein T, Ma J, Macmullan J, Neal B, Sacks G, Sanders D, Snowdon W, Swinburn B, Vandevijvere S, Walker C for INFORMAS. Monitoring the health-related labelling of foods and non-alcoholic beverages in retail settings. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1):70-81. doi: 10.1111/obr.12077
14. Lee A, Mhurchu CN, Sacks G, Swinburn B, Snowdon W, Vandevijvere S, Hawkes C, L’Abbé M, Rayner M, Sanders D, Barquera S, Friel S, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, Lobstein T, Ma J, Macmullan J, Mohan S, Monteiro C, Neal B, Walker C for INFORMAS. Monitoring the price and affordability of foods and diets globally. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1):82-95. doi: 10.1111/obr.12077
15. L’Abbé M, Schermel A, Minaker L, Kelly B, Lee A, Vandevijvere S, Twohig P, Barquera S, Friel S, Hawkes C, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Lobstein T, Ma J, Macmullan J, Neal B, Sacks G, Sanders D, Snowdon W, Swinburn B, Vandevijvere S, Walker C for INFORMAS. Monitoring foods and beverages provided and sold in public sector settings. Obesity Reviews 2013;14 Suppl(1):96-107. doi: 10.1111/obr.12079
16. Swinburn B, Vandevijvere S, Kraak V, Sacks G, Snowdon W, Hawkes C, Barquera S, Friel S, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Lobstein T, Macmullan J Ma, Mohan S, Monteiro C, Neal B, Rayner M, Sanders D, Walker C, for INFORMAS. Monitoring and benchmarking government policies and actions to improve the healthiness of food environments: a proposed Government Healthy Food Environment Policy Index. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1):24-37. doi: 10.1111/obr.12073
17. Vandevijvere S, Monteiro C, Krebs-Smith SM, Lee A, Swinburn B, Kelly B, Neal B, Snowdon W,  Sacks G for INFORMAS. Monitoring and benchmarking population diet quality globally: a step-wise approach. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1):135-149. doi: 10.1111/obr.12082
18. Hope S, Snowdon W, et al. Junk Food’ Promotion to Children and Adolescents in Fiji. Fiji Journal of Public Health 2013;2(1):27-35
19. Raj A, Drauna M, Snowdon W. Exposure to Advertising of ‘Junk food’ in Fiji. Fiji Journal of Public Health 2013;2(1):36-37
20. Waqa G, Mavoa M, Snowdon W. Knowledge brokering between researchers and policy makers in Fiji to develop policies to reduce obesity: a process evaluation. Implementation Science 2013; 8(74). 1ST July 2013.
21. Wate J, Snowdon W, Millar L, Nichols M, Mavoa H, Goundar R, Kama A, Swinburn B. Adolescent dietary patterns in Fiji and their relationships with standardized Body Mass Index. International Journal for Behavioural Nutrition and Physical Activity 2013; 10(45). 9th April 2013.
22. Snowdon W, Malakellis M, Millar L, Swinburn B. Ability of body mass index and waist circumference to identify risk factors for non-communicable disease in the Pacific Islands. Obesity Research & Clinical Practice 2014;8(1):35-45. doi.org/10.1016/j.orcp.2012.06.005
23. Dunford E, Webster J, Metzler A.B, Czernichow S, Ni Mhurchu C, Wolmarans P, Snowdon W, Abbe M, Li N, Maulik P.K, Barquera S, Schoi V, Allemandi L, Samman N, Wenzel de Menezes E, Hassell T, Ortiz J, Salazar de Ariza.J, Rahman A.R, de ῀Nunez  L, Garcia M.R, van Rossum C, Thiam L.M, MacGregor G, Bruce N, The Food Monitoring Group. “Progress with a global branded food composition database.” Food Chemistry 2013;140(3):451-457
24. Snowdon W, Raj A, Reeve E, Guerrero R, Fesaitu J, Cateine K, Guignet C. Processed foods available in the Pacific Islands. BMC Globalization and Health 2013; 9:53. doi: 10.1186/1744-8603-9-53
25. Sluyter J, Scragg R, Plank L, Waqa G, Fotu K, Swinburn B. Sizing the association between lifestyle behaviours and fatness in a large, heterogeneous sample of youth of multiple ethnicities from 4 countries. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity 2013. doi:10.1186/1479-5868-10-115
26. Friel S, Gleeson D, Thow A-M, LaBonte R, Stuckler D, Kay A, Snowdon W.  A new generation of trade policy: potential risks to diet-related health from the trans pacific partnership agreement. Globalization and Health 2013; 9(46).
27. Petersen S, Moodie M, Mavoa H, Waqa G, Goundar R, Swinburn B. Relationship between overweight and health-related quality of life in secondary school children in Fiji: results from a cross-sectional population based study. International Journal for Obesity. 2013 Nov 15. doi: 10.1038/ijo.2013.212.
28. Waqa G, Moodie M, Schultz J and Swinburn B. Process evaluation of a community-based intervention program: Healthy Youth Healthy Communities, adolescent obesity prevention project in Fiji. Journal of Global Health Promotion 2013 Dec; 20(4):23-34. doi: 10.1177/1757975913501909.
29. Webster J, Snowdon W, Moodie M, et al. (2014) Cost-effectiveness of reducing salt intake in the Pacific Islands: protocol for a before and after intervention study. BMC Public Health 14: 107.
30. Hawkes C, Thow AM, Downs S, Ling A, Ghosh-Jerath S, Snowdon W, Morgan E, Thiam I, Jewell J. 2014. Identifying effective food systems solutions for nutrition and noncommunicable diseases: creating policy coherence in the fats supply chain. SCN News 40; 39-47.

2014

1. Waqa G, Snowdon W, and Raj A. (2014) Equity in services for non-communicable diseases: How can Fiji’s health systems respond better?. Fiji Journal of Public Health, 3(1):41-42.
2. Kumar K, Snowdon W, Ram S Khan, Cornelius M, Tukana I, Reid S (2014). “Descriptive analysis of diabetes-related amputations at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, Fiji, 2010–2012.” Public Health in Action 4(3): 155-158.
3. Sacks G, Mialon M, Vandevijvere S, Trevena H, Snowdon W, Crino M, Swinburn B (2014). “Comparison of food industry policies and commitments on marketing to children and product (re)formulation in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji.” Critical Public Health: 1-21.
4. Snowdon W (2014). “Sugar-sweetened beverages in Pacific Island countries and territories: problems and solutions?” Pacific Health Dialog 20(1): 43-46
5. Webster J, Snowdon W, Moodie M, et al. Cost-effectiveness of reducing salt intake in the Pacific Islands: protocol for a before and after intervention study. BMC Public Health 2014, 14:107
6. Hawkes C, Thow AM, Downs S, Ling A, Ghosh-Jerath S, Snowdon W, Morgan E, Thiam I, Jewell J. Identifying effective food systems solutions for nutrition and noncommunicable diseases: creating policy coherence in the fats supply chain. SCN News 2014, 40:9-47
7. Sluyter J., Scragg R., Waqa G., Fotu K., Swinburn B. The utility of serving size in the measurement of soft drink consumption. Pacific Health Dialog. 2014; 20(1) 67-72

2015

1. Waqa G, McCool J, Snowdon W, Freeman B (2015). Adolescents Perceptions of Pro-and Antitobacco Imagery and Marketing: Qualitative Study of Students from Suva, Fiji. Hindawi Publishing Corporation, BioMed Research International: Article ID 602635, 7 pages. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2015/602635
2. Melissa M, Boyd Swinburn, Jillian Wate, Isimeli Tukana, Gary Sack. Analysis of the corporate political activity of major food industry actors in Fiji. Globalization and Health. 2016; 12:18.

2016

Melissa M, Boyd Swinburn, Jillian Wate, Isimeli Tukana, Gary Sack (2016). The Fijian Government has established a partnership with the Fiji Food Industry Group to help combat and reduce Non communicable diseases: influence of the food industry on public health policies and outcomes in Fiji”. Globalization and Health. 12: 18; doi: 10.1186/s12992-016-0158-8

2010

1. Snowdon W, Lawrence M, Schultz J, Vivili P, Swinburn B. Evidence-based policy solutions to promote a healthy food environment for the Pacific Islands. Public Health Nutr. 2010; 13(6):886-92
2. Snowdon W, Potter J-L, Swinburn B, Schultz J, Lawrence M. Prioritizing policy interventions to improve diets? Will it work, can it happen, will it do harm? Health prom Int. 2010; 25(1)
3. Thow AM, Snowdon W. The effect of trade and trade policy on diet and health in the Pacific Islands. In: Hawkes C, Blouin C, Henson S, Drager N, Dubé L, editors. Trade, Food, Diet and Health: Perspectives and Policy Options. Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell 2010

PIHRS Symposium 2023 Conference

Background

The Pacific Islands Health Research Symposium (PIHRS) is an annual conference of Pacific health researchers researching Pacific health issues and challenges. It was first launched in 2011 with the objective to provide a platform where staff and students could be given the opportunity to showcase their research. Today, the PIHRS has become an annual event for the College of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS), Fiji National University (FNU).

The FNU has continued to embark on efforts and strategies to strengthen the research capacity and profile of its academic staff and students at all the Colleges. Examples of such strategies are the creation of research portfolios as the Pro-Vice Chancellor Research (PVCR), and the College Associate Deans of Research (ADRs). Research is increasingly becoming an important aspect of the University and events such as the PIHRS are encouraging our staff and students to engage in research and present their research findings in a larger forum.

Aim of PIHRS

The aim of the PIHRS is to offer a platform for presenting research, research ideas, and methodologies and sharing of knowledge. It is hoped that some of these will provide critical challenges, and open new spaces, for further research that can impact aspects of health care and health services delivery.

PIHRS 2023 Conference Announcement

The 2023 Pacific Islands Health Research Symposium (PIHRS) – Save the Date Flyer is in circulation and the dates 4-6^th September 2023.

The theme is “Bridging the Policy Gaps: Pacific Health Evidence to inform Pacific Health Decisions”, and it provides an opportunity to review current and future policies (and their implementation) which are integral in improving health service delivery and wellbeing of the people in the Pacific Island countries. We intend that this conference will attract researchers, academics, policy makers, practitioners and anyone who has interest in governance, health service management and politics.

We look forward to receiving your abstract(s) if you have something to share at PIHRS 2023!

Symposium Theme

This year’s symposium theme is “Bridging the Policy Gaps: Pacific Health Evidence to inform Pacific Health Decisions”

Sub-Themes

1) Communicable Disease

• Common Communicable disease in the PICs
• Surveillance Systems
• Environmental Health

2) Non-Communicable Diseases

• Food Security and Nutrition
• Physical Activity
• NCD Services
• Others

3) Health Systems & Policies

• Sustainable policies
• Health Economy Approaches
• Others

4) Climate Change & Health

Symposium Date & Time

4^th September,2023 |Time: 9:00am – 4:00pm FJT
5^th September, 2023 |Time: 9:00am – 4:00pm FJT
6^th September, 2023 |Time: 9:00am – 4:00pm FJT

Call for Abstract:

Closing date: 21^st July 2023

Registration

OPEN NOW and closes on 18^th August 2023

PIHRS 2023 brings you a unique experience with the speeches from renowned speakers, best presentations, roundtable discussions, networking opportunities and many more.

PIHRS Information Package

Click here for information on PIHRS Information Package 2023

Call for Abstracts

PIHRS Abstract Submission Guidelines

To facilitate the submission process and the subsequent follow-up process, please consider the following guidelines, information, tips, terms, and deadlines mentioned.

Abstract Guidelines Structure

• The maximum word limit for the abstract is 250 words.
• Please download the abstract template and follow the format carefully.
• Your submission should be submitted in English.
• Please do not include any graphics or tables.
• Submit ONE abstract per area/session of interest. Do no submit same abstract for more than one session.
• Abstracts should be carefully compiled and thoroughly checked, in particular with regard to the list of authors, before submission in order to avoid last-minute changes.
• The submission of an abstract carries with it the obligation that it is presented at the conference by the author or, at least, by one of the co-authors. If this is not possible, please withdraw your abstract as early as possible.
• By submitting an abstract, authors accept the license & copyright agreement and the rules of conduct.

Steps to follow for your Abstract Submission

Once you prepared your abstract according to the above guidelines,

• Submit your abstract via the online portal
• After submission you will be acknowledged of the receipt of the abstract via an email within three working days.
• For abstract submission enquiries please contact: PIHRS@fnu.ac.fj

Abstract Submission Deadline

• Abstract submissions open on Monday 03^rd April 2023
• Please submit your abstract before Friday 21^st July 2023

Double Blind Peer Reviewing Process

• Your abstract will undergo a double-blind peer review by the PIHRS scientific committee within two to three weeks after its receipt.
• Results of the abstract review will be sent to the author within four weeks of submission.
• The conference Chair serves as the head of the scientific committee and will take the final decision on abstracts.
• Acceptance or rejections of the paper will be sent to you with reviewer comments.

PIHRS Abstract Template

2023 PIHRS Abstract Template for Oral Presentations

Title

Authors listing: (Presenting Author in bold)

Institutional Affiliation and email address (es)

Introduction:  Previous research and/or rationale for performing the study. Include aim and Objective of the study if applicable.

Method: Adequate description of the type of study, study sample and statistical methods used.

Results: Summary of findings, description of analysis, and interpretation of findings.

Discussion: Limitations of the study, implications of the results, and further work.

Word Count:  (indicate number of words: should not Exceed 250 words)

• If selected, [I consent/ do not consent] to having my abstract published in the conference booklet and online.

• I prefer to do an oral presentation. If not selected for an oral presentation, I [am/ am not] willing to do oral presentation.

• I declare that this [abstract/paper] contains information that [has/has not] been presented [fully/partially] at other peer reviewed events, conferences, or published journals. If you have published or presented partially or fully, please provide details.
  

  ---

Instructions: (Delete this section before submission)

• Only abstracts related to Pacific Islands Health-related research will be considered for the symposium.
• Reviews of existing studies or research conducted outside the region are not eligible for this symposium.
• Submit an abstract for oral presentation in the format of the template provided: Font:-Times New Roman 12, Left-justified, single-spaced. Abstracts must not contain tables, figures or photos.
• Ensure correct spelling of Names, and Titles. Names to be written as: First name, Surname. Professional or academic titles can be included and names of authors separated by commas.
• Word count of the body of the abstract (Background-Conclusion) should not exceed 250 words.
• Institutional Affiliation to be presented as: Name of Institution, Country, and Email Contact.
• For consent to print your abstract in the booklet, strike-out the option that does not apply.
• For presentation options, strike-out the option that does not apply.
• For declaration, please strike out the option that does not apply.
• Delete instructions (this section) prior to submission.

PIHRS Abstract Submission

The PIHRS will be held: 4-6 September 2023, Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa

Thanks for your interest in our conference, please refer to the abstract submission guidelines and complete the required information and click on submit. You will receive an email notification with an acknowledgment of receipt of submission.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If your question is not answered below, please contact the PIHRS Secretariat on PIHRS@fnu.ac.fj.

1. What is a conference?

A conference is a meeting, often lasting for a few days, which is organized on a particular subject or to bring together participants who have a common interest. Participants will participate or attend the PIHRS conference face-to-face and use this platform for presenting research, research ideas, and methodologies and sharing of knowledge. It is hoped that some of these will provide critical challenges, and open new spaces, for further research that can impact aspects of health care and health services delivery.

2. When is PIHRS 2023?

The PIHRS Conference will be held from the 04^th – 06^th September 2023. All conference sessions will be based on Fiji Time. There will be recorded presentations for speakers and a zoom organized for speakers who cannot attend physically.

3. Who should attend?

The conference is open to local and international academics, donors, government ministries, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), technical agencies, the Private Sector, students, and others who might be interested.

4. What are the technical requirements needed to participate?

To participate, you will need a reliable Internet connection and a laptop.

5. How do I register for PIHRS 2023?

Registration for 2023 PIHRS Conference has opened.  For online registration, please click on: https://www.fnu.ac.fj/college-of-medicine/research-cmnhs/pihrs/pihrs-registration-2023/

6. What happens once I register?

Once you registered online, you will receive an email confirmation with detailed instructions on payment of the registration fee with the invoice generated and sent to your email.

7. How much do I need to pay to register for the conference?

The conference registration fee is in Fiji Dollars and can be viewed here: https://www.fnu.ac.fj/college-of-medicine/research-cmnhs/pihrs/pihrs-information-package/

8. Is there funding available to participate in the conference?

Funding is not available for this conference.

9. Where/How can I claim Continuing Professional Development (CDP) credit points?

Registrants can claim Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points, participation certificates, and provide feedback by email to Secretariat here PIHRS@fnu.ac.fj

PIHRS Registration 2023

PIHRS Program 2023

Click here to view past event (2021) program

Manuscript Writing Workshop - Closed Meeting