10,000 Toes Campaign Partners with American Samoa Ministry of Health to Combat High Rate of NCDs

American Samoa has been facing challenges with a relatively high incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) per capita. In an effort to combat this issue, the 10,000 Toes Campaign has entered the country, offering support to churches and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Recently, 18 churches were given kits by the Campaign, while another 6 churches were unable to receive kits due to capacity constraints. However, this did not deter the Campaign's efforts, as presentations were made on local TV stations and the Hope channel, creating a positive impact amongst the people.

Mr. George Kwong, the TPUM Health Coordinator, reported successful meetings with the American Samoa Ministry of Health. These meetings included Director of Health Motusa Tuikama Nua, Clinical Director for Community Health Centres Dr. Elizabeth Lauvao, Centre for Disease Control (CDC) representative Leiema Hunt, Program Director for Maternal Child Health Programs Dr. Anaise Uso, and Primary Care Provider and Assistant NCD Clinical Co-ordinator Dr. Fiona Trail. Mr. Kwong presented the Campaign's vision and goals to the Ministry of Health, ultimately resulting in a partnership agreement between the American Samoa SDA/ 10,000 Toes Campaign and the American Samoa government’s Ministry of Health.

Director of Health Motusa Tuikama Nua expressed his eagerness for the partnership and the draft of the MOU. "I want that MOU on my table as soon as possible," he said. This partnership between the Campaign and the Ministry of Health is a promising step towards reducing the prevalence of NCDs in American Samoa.

The 10,000 Toes Campaign's efforts in American Samoa serve as a reminder of the importance of addressing public health concerns, especially in areas with high rates of NCDs. Through partnerships and community engagement, positive change can be achieved.