The inaugural gathering of the Pacific Academy of Sciences commenced this week in Apia, Samoa, marking a significant milestone for scientific collaboration across the Pacific. Researchers from throughout the region convened for the historic event, which signals a new chapter in Pacific-led research and innovation.

A new study, published in the newest issue of the New Zealand Medical Journal, has found that discrimination in healthcare settings is strongly linked to Pacific Rainbow+ people avoiding medical care in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Specialist Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) capacity in Samoa has been strengthened following the completion of postgraduate training by Dr Maria Ah Kuoi-Lauano, supported by the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) under the New Zealand Medical Treatment Scheme (NZMTS).

Etu Pasifika Clinical Director, Dr Maryann Heather, spoke to RNZ, warning that one in four people infected with dengue will get sick, with outbreaks ongoing in the islands. Know the symptoms, protect against mosquito bites and seek medical care if you're concerned after travel.

This World Cancer Day, we reflect on the importance of cancer care that extends beyond treatment alone - care that restores dignity, strengthens wellbeing, and supports people to return to their families, communities, and everyday lives.

For Laisa, a mother of seven from Lawai, Nadroga in Fiji, learning that her son Taito had a heart condition, Tetralogy of Fallot, came with fear and uncertainty. Laisa leaned on prayer and knowledge, educating herself as she prepared for every possible outcome.

Good vision plays a vital role in how we live, work, and stay connected to the people and places that matter most. Samoan ophthalmologist Tofilau Dr Alistair Papali'i-Curtin shares why eye health deserves greater attention in our Pacific communities—especially during the high-UV summer months in Aotearoa.

Almost two weeks into the new year, we continue to highlight the importance of keeping healthy, both physically and mentally.

In Pacific communities, resilience is often worn as a badge of honour — a quiet expectation to keep showing up, giving more, and carrying on no matter the cost. But new research, led by Asetoa Sam Pilisi, suggests these expectations can also mask significant experiences of burnout among Pacific adults.

As we celebrate Solomon Islands Language Week, we are reminded that language is more than words — it is identity, history, and the heartbeat of our people. This year’s theme, “Protect our language and culture,” calls us to honour the voices that shaped us and ensure they continue into the future.

Strengthening country capacity has long been central to the New Zealand Medical Treatment Scheme (NZMTS), which has supported Pacific health systems for more than thirty years. This commitment continues today through the work of the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Group — including in Tonga, where the investment is evident in the growing capability of the Emergency Department at Vaiola Hospital

The Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) proudly congratulates PMA President, Dr Kiki Maoate ONZM FRACS, PMA Board Director, Sir Collin Tukuitonga KNZM, and PMA founding member, Dame Teuila Percival DNZM, on their appointment as Fellows of the Pacific Academy of Sciences (PAS).