TASK 1

The concept of health in the Pacific encompasses the well-being of the whole person,
including their spiritual, mental, and physical well-being. This holistic view of health
includes communities, environment, and relationships, as referred to as fonua in Tongan,
vanua in Fijian, and whenua in Māori. Pacific health models, such as the Fonua Model, focus
on the balance of spiritual, cultural, and environmental factors in health. The model has five
dimensions and five levels, each intertwined like a mattress. Health must be addressed at all
levels to maintain societal health and well-being. Another model, Te Whare Tapa Whā,
focuses on indigenous Māori people in Aotearoa/New Zealand, but is relevant to all people
according to Ryan (2021).

Task 2

To ensure that culturally appropriate methods are used to prevent obesity and noncommunicable
diseases in the Pacific region, governments and organizations must first recognize the unique
challenges that Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) face, as outlined by Vogliano et al.
(2021). They should acknowledge the region's uniqueness, making differences between Micronesia,
Polynesia, and Melanesia, and prioritize culturally sensitive techniques that respect indigenous
customs and knowledge. Building on the results of Aselu (2015) and Ryan (2021), these initiatives
should be grounded in indigenous perspectives on well-being, noting that the term 'well-being' has
varied meanings in different Pacific cultures. As highlighted by the Fonua, it is critical to prioritize
community interaction, respect for spiritual and cultural values, and a holistic approach of health and
well-being.