Dr. Siobhan Tu’akoi and Dr. Samuela ‘Ofanoa, are spearheading significant health initiatives in South Auckland, addressing rheumatic fever and gout among Pacific and Māori populations. Their projects, funded by the Health Research Council of New Zealand, aim to create impactful, community-driven solutions.
Dr. Tu’akoi, from Holonga, Tongatapu, received a $487,000 fellowship to address rheumatic fever inequities. Her research will focus on developing community-led, social-media-based interventions to improve health literacy and awareness. The project will involve workshops and community input to tailor strategies that address the high rates of rheumatic fever among Pacific children, who are 80 times more likely to develop the condition compared to their non-Pacific peers.
Dr. ‘Ofanoa, from Felemea, Ha’apai and Vaimalo, Vava’u, was awarded $469,657 to tackle gout. His research will focus on increasing understanding of gout and its management among Pacific men, who face high prevalence rates. The project will use community engagement methods, including talanoa (discussions) and familiar settings like touch rugby games, to reduce stigma and promote effective treatment strategies.
Both researchers say that active community involvement is key to shaping these health interventions, ensuring they are relevant and effective in addressing the specific needs of Pacific and Māori people.
