Previous Story
Competition raises awareness on non- communicable diseases in the Pacific
SUVA, Fiji—The Secretariat of the Pacific Community has launched a regional photography competition in an effort to creatively bring into focus the immense impact that non-communicable diseases, or NCDs, has on Pacific Island countries and territories.
The “Focus on NCDs in the Pacific” initiative provides an opportunity for amateur and professional photographers throughout the region to capture images portraying the impact of NCDs on Pacific Island economies and homes and how they can be prevented and managed.
Photographers can enter their images into one or more of the four categories:
1. NCD prevention
2. Social impact of NCDs
4. Culture and NCD prevention
NCDs, primarily heart disease, cancers, chronic lung diseases and diabetes are the leading cause of death in the Pacific region, placing added stress and pressure on individuals, families and island health systems. These diseases are also largely preventable and manageable.
“The photo competition is all about showcasing the challenges non-communicable diseases pose for people living in the Pacific and the role each person can play in preventing these diseases,” SPC non-communicable diseases team leader, Dr. Si Thu Win Tin, says.
Keeping in theme with the promotion of health and wellbeing, the winner of each category will receive a Wi-Fi connected fitness wristband to track daily physical activity.
The images submitted for the competition will be used to support SPC’s health campaigns and displayed across a number of platforms including social media and print publications.
“I encourage everyone from all Pacific countries and territories to enter the photography competition. A picture is worth a thousand words. This is your chance to show the world how NCDs are affecting your country, and how Pacific people are rising to address this challenge,” said Dr. Si Thu Win Tin.
More information about the competition including entry terms and conditions, can be found on the SPC website or by contacting Solene Bertrand on email: SoleneB@spc.int.
Competition closes on Jan. 15 2017. (SPC)
