The epidemiological transition in Papua New Guinea: new evidence from verbal autopsy studies.

Background: Recent economic growth in Papua New Guinea (PNG) would suggest that the country may be experiencing an epidemiological transition, characterized by a reduction in infectious diseases and a growing burden from non-communicable diseases (NCDs). However, data on cause-specific mortality in PNG are very sparse, and the extent of the transition within the country is poorly understood.

Methods: Mortality surveillance was established in four small populations across PNG: West Hiri in Central Province, Asaro Valley in Eastern Highlands Province, Hides in Hela Province and Karkar Island in Madang Province.

Community response to intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in infants (IPTi) in Papua New Guinea.

Background: Building on previous acceptability research undertaken in sub-Saharan Africa this article aims to investigate the acceptability of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in infants (IPTi) in Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Methods: A questionnaire was administered to mothers whose infants participated in the randomised placebo controlled trial of IPTi. Mothers whose infants participated and who refused to participate in the trial, health workers, community reporters and opinion leaders were interviewed.

Antenatal care in Goroka: issues and perceptions.

The high maternal mortality rate in Papua New Guinea indicates an urgent need for action. One area for examination is antenatal care. From April 2002 to August 2002 a qualitative study was undertaken in order to identify perceptions, beliefs, barriers and strengths relevant to the utilization of antenatal care by women in the urban, periurban and rural communities of Goroka, Papua New Guinea.