KOROR, Palau – To mark the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Palau and Japan, the Japanese Embassy hosted a health workshop for members of Palauan women’s groups at the ambassador’s residence on Thursday.
The event featured presentations by Dr. Satoshi Ogata of Hiroshima International University and Mr. Amma Nohumichi of Peace Wind. Dr. Ogata shared data from health screenings conducted in Palau, revealing a concerning rise in prediabetes and diabetes cases. He emphasized the importance of proactive screenings to address this growing problem of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Palau.
The workshop highlighted the positive impact of collaboration between health and education ministries. Changes made to school meal programs based on screening results have improved the nutritional value of student lunches. Dr. Ogata noted, “Educating children about proper nutrition is easier than modifying adult behavior.”
Mr. Nohumichi presented data from Peace Wind’s screenings, which also identified a disturbing trend of rising NCDs, particularly diabetes. Their findings showed that 19% of Palauans already have diabetes, and 42% are at risk.
These alarming statistics on the health of both adults and children served as a wake-up call for the women attending the workshop. Both presenters stressed the importance of early screenings as a key strategy to combat diabetes.
Japanese Ambassador Orikasa concluded the event by emphasizing, “We cannot discuss the future without addressing current health issues.”