A groundbreaking ceremony has marked the start of construction of a lifestyle medicine centre at Pacific Adventist University (PAU) in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.
Two government representatives presented a cheque for 15 million Kina to support the project. Among them was Kinoka Feo, Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science, Technology and Sports.
Staff for the new centre recently visited Sydney for training by the ELIA Lifestyle Medicine Centre team at Sydney Adventist Hospital.
Dr Geraldine Lagani, who will serve as medical director at the clinic, said, “Papua New Guinea is facing a growing burden of lifestyle diseases while our health system struggles with limited manpower and resources.
“The recent training with the ELIA Lifestyle Medical Centre team was so encouraging. It reminded me that many of our patients don’t just need medicine, they need coaching, education, practical healthy life skills, social connectedness and so much more because lifestyle diseases develop over time and often require long-term change.
“I am genuinely excited about the lifestyle medicine centre that will be established at Pacific Adventist University. I see it as a lighthouse—a place of guidance, practical support and hope, where a dedicated team of professionals can offer holistic care and help patients make real and lasting changes for better health. In a country with a fragile health system and economic challenges, this centre is an important step toward a healthier, stronger and more productive PNG. “
Also receiving training were Deslyn Vagi, who will serve as both nurse and exercise therapist, and Olyne Sailo whose role will be nutritionist and health coach.
The new centre will train 10,000 Toes Campaign ambassadors to lead the fight against diabetes and other non-communicable diseases in the region.
“I’m very excited to see this project moving forward,” said 10,000 Toes coordinator Pamela Townend. “This centre will support our ambassadors as they learn to help their communities live healthier lives.”
Dr Geraldine Lagani, Deslyn Vagi and Olyne Sailo, pictured with Dr Andrea Matthews (ELIA Lifestyle Medicine Centre medical director) and Dr Geraldine Przybylko (ELIA Wellness executive director).
