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Learning Objective 1: The learner will be able to identify the primary Noncommunicable diseases and lifestyle practices effecting developing island nations.
Learning Objective 2: The learner will be able to identify effective and sustainable interventions to reduce the incidence of morbidity and mortality related to Noncommunicable diseases.
Problem: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of death in developing countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a “regional state of health emergency due to the epidemic of NCDs.” Local authorities lack the knowledge and workforce to begin implementing treatment options.
Purpose: To prevent the morbidity and mortality rates of NCDs from progressing further and to increase the quality of life in future generations.
Population: Small island developing nations throughout the Pacific Ocean.
Organizing Construct: Using an ethnographic approach based on Madeline Leininger’s Sunrise model, and the United Nations Millennium development goals, hands on localized teaching will be implemented to promote community wide lifestyle modification. Lifestyle modification has been shown to be the most efficacious nonmedical approach to reducing health disparities related to NCDs. Nurses are the basis of primary health care in developing island nations; therefore, their involvement is crucial in the success and survival of the future Pacific Islander populations.
Implementing the Interventions: A sailing vessel relying primarily on solar and wind energy will be used as a clinic base to facilitate interisland travel in these remote areas. The primary goal will be to educate local community leaders in lifestyle modification, practical agricultural techniques and food preparation of healthy and economic dietary choices that meet cultural norms. This approach will encourage community adherence and promote a preventative focus. Local leaders will be encouraged to facilitate the infrastructural development to assist community acceptance of lifestyle change.
Conclusions: In order to decrease the morbidity of NCDs in developing nations, lifestyle modification must be implemented. A fundamental change in the way of life is needed for the survival of the people, the community, and that of the future populations.