What's Happening?
Nature Communications, along with Communications Medicine and Scientific Reports, is inviting submissions for a collection focused on health challenges in Pacific Island Countries (PIC). This initiative is part of the 'Healthy Islands' vision, which was first adopted in 1995 and reaffirmed in 2015 with an added focus on ocean protection. The collection aims to support research related to Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3 and 13, emphasizing the relationship between environment and health outcomes. Despite progress in areas like life expectancy and disease reduction, PIC faces significant health challenges, including high child mortality rates and an epidemic of non-communicable diseases exacerbated by dietary shifts and environmental changes.
Why It's Important?
The call for research is crucial as PIC are dealing with complex health issues that have global implications. The region's struggle with non-communicable diseases, such as obesity and diabetes, highlights the impact of global dietary trends and environmental changes. Rising sea levels and overfishing are affecting traditional food sources, leading to increased reliance on nutritionally poor imported foods. Addressing these challenges through research can inform public health policies and interventions not only in PIC but also in other regions facing similar issues. The initiative encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing, which is vital for developing effective solutions.
What's Next?
Researchers interested in contributing to this collection are encouraged to submit their work through the specified submission system, selecting the 'Healthy Islands' option. The journals are particularly interested in original research and commentary from authors based in PIC, offering support regarding article processing charges. This effort aims to foster local research capacity and ensure that solutions are tailored to the unique challenges faced by PIC. The collection will adhere to editorial policies, including the Global Code of Conduct for Research in Resource-Poor Settings, ensuring ethical standards are maintained.
Beyond the Headlines
The initiative underscores the importance of integrating environmental considerations into health research, reflecting a proto-One Health approach. This holistic view is increasingly relevant as climate change and environmental degradation pose significant threats to health security globally. By focusing on PIC, the collection highlights the need for sustainable solutions that address both health and environmental challenges, potentially serving as a model for other regions. The emphasis on local authorship and compliance with ethical research standards also promotes equity and inclusivity in scientific research.
