Engaging with Pacific Communities to support effective dialogue, appropriate outreach and scientific knowledge translation activity

Abstract

Abstract Indigenous Māori and Pacific population groups remain disproportionately affected by Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) and Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD). ARF is an autoimmune response to untreated throat (and skin) infection by Group A Streptococcal bacteria. Untreated and repeated episodes of ARF or a severe attack, can lead to permanent cardiac damage known as RHD. High rates of ARF and RHD persist in New Zealand and the Pacific Region. To help raise awareness and support knowledge translation efforts that facilitate dissemination of research work and findings of relevance to Pacific populations, appropriate community engagement is needed. The purpose of this work was to host a Pacific community event to support appropriate engagement and dialogue between researchers and Pacific communities in the southern Wellington Region that would facilitate communication and discussion of ARF/RHD related Penicillin research works and findings. A Pacific community event was held on 30th July, 2018 in Porirua that involved Pacific researchers, University Pacific staff a Medical student and various Pacific groups in the area. Scientific information and research focused on Immunological components related to ARF and RHD were presented by a Pacific Biomedical Scientist with the audience participating in a lengthy discussion session that followed. Feedback demonstrated those involved had engaged appropriately and successfully with the Pacific community groups represented with requests made for similar future events to be held. The response to this Pacific community event highlights the importance of cultural awareness being combined with appropriate scientific and knowledge translation communication activity to support effective dialogue.