10,000 Toes Campaign Takes on Nauru's Obesity Epidemic with WHO Support

The island nation of Nauru is grappling with a serious health issue, with high levels of obesity and diabetes affecting 30 to 40% of the adult population. This is due to the shift from traditional diets to one high in processed sugar and saturated fats. The 10,000 Toes Campaign is working to address the issue and has recently received funding from the World Health Organization (WHO) to launch a diabetes awareness campaign.

Coordinator Pamela Townend said, “It is sad to see that Nauru has gone from being known as one of the richest countries to now being one of the fattest. We are grateful to WHO for providing funds to start a health change.” The 10,000 Toes Campaign will carry out several wellness initiatives, including a health expo, training for ambassadors, community screening, healthy cooking classes, and community gardening. Local pastor Jiosaia Navakalomana is leading the campaign as a trained and certified 10,000 Toes ambassador. Financial support is needed to continue the important health mission of the 10,000 Toes Campaign in the South Pacific.