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Bates College

Publication Date

Fall 12-1-2014

Program Name

Samoa: Pacific Communities and Social Change

Abstract

With an increase in the number of health issues within Samoa, specifically in relation to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), it is important to examine the efforts being made by government health officials to improve Samoa’s overall health status. This study explores the role of the Health Education and Promotion Section (H.E.A.P.S.) of the Ministry of Health in establishing and promoting healthier standards within the Samoan community. The current efforts of H.E.A.P.S. in combating NCDs through recently introduced projects and programs were explored in-depth. Further analysis of the design and effectiveness of these programs in changing the unhealthy habits of Samoan people was conducted through an application of Samoan cultural values and the Health Belief Model. Through multiple interviews, participant observation and further secondary research, it was found that H.E.A.P.S. contributes to the establishment of a healthier lifestyle in Samoa through the implementation of health programs and projects that target the four main risk factors of NCDs. The appropriate and numerous proactive measures taken by H.E.A.P.S. reveal promise in achieving a healthier future in Samoa.

Disciplines

Diseases | Health and Medical Administration | Health Information Technology | International and Area Studies | Medical Education | Medical Humanities | Other International and Area Studies | Pacific Islands Languages and Societies | Polynesian Studies | Public Health | Public Health Education and Promotion

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