Knowledge brokering between researchers and policymakers in Fiji to develop policies to reduce obesity: a process evaluation

The importance of using research evidence in decision making at the policy level has been increasingly recognized. However, knowledge brokering to engage researchers and policymakers in government and non-government organizations is challenging. This paper describes and evaluates the knowledge exchange processes employed by the Translational Research on Obesity Prevention in Communities (TROPIC) project that was conducted from July 2009 to April 2012 in Fiji. TROPIC aimed to enhance: the evidence-informed decision making skills of policy developers; and awareness and utilization of local and other obesity-related evidence to develop policies that could potentially improve the nation&rsquo;s food and physical activity environments. The specific research question was: Can a knowledge brokering approach advance evidence-informed policy development to improve eating and physical activity environments in Fiji. <br /

EU aid policy towards the Pacific ACPs

This paper reviews the EU's development policy in relation to the Pacific members of the African, Caribbean and Pacific group (ACP). It considers the particular characteristics and challenges faced by these island economies before turning to their trade relations with the EU and the Community's aid programme. It considers both the regional assistance programme and the particular experience of Fiji, the largest economy of the South Pacific. Finally, it attempts to draw some more general conclusions as to the effectiveness of EU aid administration and to identify those issues that remain to be addressed including monitoring, performance criteria, deconcentration and policy coherence. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A profile of diabetes in Pacific Island countries and territories

Aim: To examine the available evidence about the epidemiology, health, social, and economic impact of diabetes in Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs). Methods: We conducted a systematic review of the peer-reviewed literature published in English from January 1990 to January 2014, and relevant technical reports. Results: A total of 1548 articles were identified of which 35 studies of type 2 diabetes met the inclusion criteria. Eighteen technical reports were also included. We found no articles reporting on type 1 diabetes or gestational diabetes that met the inclusion criteria. The prevalence, risk factors and complications of diabetes were substantial. Diabetes prevalence rate of around 40% was common. Physical inactivity, overweight and obesity were leading risk factors. High rates of diabetes complications were reported e.g. up to 69% retinopathy. Poor clinical outcomes were also reported with over 70% not meeting glycaemic control targets and approximately 50% not meeting blood pressure and cholesterol targets. Conclusion: This review highlights the burden of diabetes in PICTs and the need for more intensive interventions to improve the quality and outcomes of diabetes care. Overall, further research is needed to monitor secular diabetes trends in PICTs using standardised criteria for diagnosing diabetes and its complications