Eliminating COVID-19: what the world can learn from NZ and Taiwan
Thursday, 22 October 2020 9:34am
Both Taiwan and New Zealand have successfully eliminated COVID-19 with world-leading pandemic responses. By taking a particularly proactive approach, Taiwan’s response was probably the most effective and least disruptive of any country’s, researchers say.
School zoning could increase adolescent exercise rates, Otago researcher
Monday, 12 October 2020 12:39pm
If effective school zoning policies were widely applied, more adolescents would get valuable exercise walking or cycling to their nearest school, an Otago researcher says.
Public health experts urge a ‘yes’ vote in cannabis referendum
Friday, 9 October 2020 1:21pm
Leading specialists in addiction treatment, public health, health promotion and epidemiology are calling on New Zealanders to vote for cannabis law reform in the current referendum.
Smokers increasingly using e-cigarettes to quit, survey shows
Friday, 18 September 2020 9:03am
People who smoke are increasingly using e-cigarettes to try to quit smoking, a study by researchers at the University of Otago, Wellington, has found.
Otago research rewarded with NZ$27.4 million in Endeavour Fund grants
Friday, 11 September 2020 4:12pm
Two University of Otago proposals have been awarded over NZ$27 million in the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s (MBIE) Endeavour Fund 2020 grants.
6 months after New Zealand’s first COVID-19 case, it’s time for a more strategic approach.
Thursday, 27 August 2020 12:32pm
This week marks six months since New Zealand’s first COVID-19 case was identified on February 26.
Otago experts deemed ‘critic and conscience’ of society
Monday, 3 August 2020 11:53am
For the first time, the Gama Foundation has recognised two people at once for their efforts in being the ‘Critic and Conscience of Society’ – both University of Otago academic staff members.
Smokers support Smokefree 2025 goal and measures to help achieve it
Wednesday, 8 July 2020 10:30am
Most people who smoke or have recently quit smoking support New Zealand’s goal of becoming a smokefree nation by 2025, researchers at the University of Otago, Wellington have found.
Food taxes and subsidies would bring major health gains, study shows
Wednesday, 1 July 2020 1:27pm
A consumer tax on the saturated fat, salt and sugar content of food, accompanied by a 20 per cent subsidy on fruit and vegetables, would bring major benefits for the health sector, researchers from Otago, Auckland and Melbourne Universities say.
Otago scientists secure more than $26m for health research
Tuesday, 30 June 2020 2:21pm
University of Otago, Wellington infectious diseases expert Professor Michael Baker has received almost $5 million from the Health Research Council for a programme investigating the connection between infectious diseases and long-term conditions, something he was planning well prior to the outbreak of Covid-19.
NZ’s long history of decapitations and paint attacks on public statues: new study
Tuesday, 16 June 2020 2:33pm
Controversy over public statues is nothing new, with protestors taking to New Zealand’s statues with a range of weapons including an axe, a concrete cutter and a hammer over recent decades, a study by researchers from the University of Otago, Wellington, has found.
Fuel walking and cycling with low carbon diets, researchers say
Friday, 12 June 2020 11:18am
Walking and cycling have many benefits and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but researchers say we need to think about what people eat to fuel their walking and cycling.
Women generate lower travel-related greenhouse gas emissions, study finds
Wednesday, 10 June 2020 10:39am
Women use more diverse modes of travel and generate lower greenhouse gas emissions than men, despite men being more than twice as likely to travel by bike, a New Zealand study has found.
New Zealand hits zero active coronavirus cases. Here are 5 measures to keep it that way
Monday, 8 June 2020 3:44pm
Today, for the first time since February 28, New Zealand has no active cases of COVID-19.
Protecting young people from smoking uptake as the tobacco industry targets a new generation
Friday, 29 May 2020 11:28am
The tobacco industry is targeting a new generation of smokers with sophisticated marketing designed to associate smoking with rebellion, social prestige and attractiveness, researchers from the tobacco control research centre ASPIRE 2025, at the University of Otago, say.
New insights into vaping uptake among Māori and Pacific peoples
Monday, 25 May 2020 11:08am
Māori and Pasifika who have not been able to quit smoking may need more support to move from smoking to vaping, researchers from the University of Otago and Māori public health collective Hāpai Te Hauora have found.
Otago researchers making major contribution to Covid-19 response
Friday, 17 April 2020 12:35pm
A University of Otago molecular biologist has received new Government funding of $235,746 for Covid-19 related research to develop an effective point-of-care test for the infectious disease.
Smokers turned off by plain packs, survey shows
Wednesday, 15 April 2020 12:47pm
Plain packaging is making tobacco products less appealing and warning labels more noticeable, researchers at the University of Otago, Wellington, have found.
Tougher rules needed to prevent lead poisoning of shooters: researcher
Wednesday, 15 April 2020 8:37am
The Government must impose tougher regulations on indoor firing ranges to keep shooters and their families safe from lead poisoning, says a public health researcher at the University of Otago, Wellington.
Why New Zealand needs to continue decisive action to contain coronavirus
Friday, 20 March 2020 11:39am
With some of the toughest border restrictions and a newly-announced NZ$500 million boost to health services, New Zealand is among a small number of countries with a strategy to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.
Evidence clearly favours taxing sugary drinks – new study
Friday, 13 March 2020 3:42pm
New Zealand should follow the UK and more than 30 other countries in introducing a tax on sugary drinks to tackle obesity and reduce deaths from chronic diseases, leading researchers say.
New Zealand must learn lessons from China’s success in managing Covid-19
Monday, 9 March 2020 10:42am
While the world has been focused on Covid-19’s spread to new countries many might not have noticed that the outbreak in China is slowly being brought under control.
COVID-19 has now reached New Zealand. How prepared is it to deal with a pandemic?
Wednesday, 4 March 2020 12:29pm
New Zealand joined 48 other countries affected by the novel coronavirus last week when health authorities confirmed the first COVID-19 case.
Damp and mouldy housing new measure in latest deprivation index
Thursday, 30 January 2020 2:11pm
Damp and mouldy housing has been included as an indicator of socioeconomic deprivation in New Zealand by University of Otago researchers developing the latest version of the New Zealand Index of Socioeconomic Deprivation (NZDep2018).
What does the coronavirus epidemic mean for New Zealand?
Wednesday, 29 January 2020 2:26pm
Unlike armed conflict, here we are fighting an external threat to global health where collaboration and sharing of information benefits all nations.
Cycling to work? You may live longer
Wednesday, 29 January 2020 11:52am
People who cycle to work have a lower risk of dying, a New Zealand study has found.
Untimely access to diagnosis not main reason why Māori are dying of cancer: Otago research
Monday, 20 January 2020 11:50am
Māori have poorer access to early diagnosis for some key cancers including breast and colorectal cancers though, this is not the case for all cancers and is not necessarily why more Māori are dying of cancer, new University of Otago research shows.
Sharp drop in birth rate as a result of miscarriages in 1918 flu pandemic, study finds
Monday, 16 December 2019 11:05am
The 1918 influenza pandemic in New Zealand resulted in thousands of fewer births, particularly in the 1919 year, largely because of miscarriages from influenza infection during pregnancy, researchers have found.
Uncontrolled online marketing of e-cigarettes putting youth at risk, study finds
Friday, 29 November 2019 11:06am
Only 10 per cent of New Zealand websites selling vaping products require proof of age before purchase, researchers from the University of Otago, Wellington, have found.
Dairy owners’ lack of knowledge about e-cigarettes may undermine smoking cessation
Thursday, 7 November 2019 9:14am
Convenience store owners who lack knowledge of the e-cigarettes they sell may undermine, rather than support, smoking cessation.
Otago researchers recipients of inaugural $3m Marsden Fund Award
Tuesday, 5 November 2019 9:42am
University of Otago researchers are the recipients of an inaugural Marsden Fund Council Award worth $3 million to investigate genetic predisposition to metabolic diseases like diabetes and gout among Pacific people.
Significant association between use of long-acting contraceptives and unprecedented decline in abortion rate, study finds
Tuesday, 29 October 2019 12:24pm
A shift towards the use of long-acting reversible contraceptives, particularly by young women, is associated with declining abortion rates in New Zealand, new research has found.
New Zealand could be lifeboat to save humanity from extinction in a catastrophic pandemic, researchers say
Tuesday, 1 October 2019 10:32am
New Zealand, Australia and Iceland could act as island refuges to save humanity from extinction in the event of a catastrophic global pandemic, researchers have found.
Seven inaugural Sesquicentennial Distinguished Chair appointments to mark 150th
Monday, 30 September 2019 3:22pm
In a new initiative, the University is celebrating its internationally acclaimed scholars by creating a prestigious new role - the Sesquicentennial Distinguished Chair (Poutoko Taiea).
Through the haze: smoke-free laws failing to protect bar staff, patrons
Monday, 23 September 2019 3:10pm
Patrons and workers continue to be exposed to hazardous tobacco smoke in bars, restaurants and cafés, despite legislation designed to protect them, researchers have found.
Remove nicotine from cigarettes, smokers say
Monday, 16 September 2019 10:35am
New Zealand smokers overwhelmingly support removing the nicotine from cigarettes to make them less addictive, a national survey has found.
Smokers concealing cigarette packs’ graphic warnings, study finds
Tuesday, 10 September 2019 10:48am
Smokers are less likely to display packs of cigarettes and tobacco on tables at cafés and bars now that standardised packs with larger graphic health warnings have been introduced, according to a new study.
Otago academic to head new national cancer strategy
Monday, 2 September 2019 12:33pm
The new interim National Director of Cancer Control, University of Otago academic Professor Diana Sarfati, believes lives will be saved as a result of the new National Cancer Action Plan.
New research collaboration to fight cancer in New Zealand
Tuesday, 20 August 2019 8:57am
University of Otago cancer researchers are coming together in a new collaboration awarded a $2 million grant by the Cancer Society in a bid to better tackle a leading cause of death in New Zealand.
Teenagers say ‘nope’ to dope
Friday, 16 August 2019 11:18am
New research from the University of Otago, Wellington, has shed light on the declining use of cannabis use by teens.
Moving house related to behavioural difficulties in four-year-olds, study finds
Tuesday, 13 August 2019 12:02pm
Moving house is linked with increases in emotional and behavioural difficulties in four-year-olds, with the problems compounding each time a family moves, researchers have found.
Massive potential health gains in switching to active transport – Otago study
Thursday, 18 July 2019 12:24pm
Swapping short car trips for walking or biking could achieve as much health gain as ongoing tobacco tax increases, according to a study from the University of Otago, Wellington.
New data on e-cigarette use among New Zealand adults
Monday, 15 July 2019 12:59pm
Around one in six New Zealand adults have tried e-cigarettes but only 2 per cent are using them currently, a national survey has found.
Eliminating waiting lists for cataract surgery prevents falls and is cost effective
Thursday, 4 July 2019 11:21am
Eliminating waiting times for cataract surgery would be a cost-effective health system intervention, largely driven by the falls prevention benefits related to improved vision, a just-published New Zealand study has found.
Sugary drink taxes reduce consumption, major review shows
Tuesday, 25 June 2019 2:32pm
A 10 per cent tax on sugary drinks has cut the purchase and consumption of sugary drinks by an average of 10 per cent in places it has been introduced, a just published major review shows.
Butting Out: Researchers gauge public opinion on tobacco product waste
Friday, 14 June 2019 11:25am
Requiring cigarettes to contain biodegradable filters, fining smokers who litter cigarette butts and expanding smoke free outdoor areas are measures the public considers are most likely to reduce tobacco product waste, new University of Otago research reveals.
More awareness needed about lead exposure from firearms, researchers say
Tuesday, 11 June 2019 3:10pm
Researchers are warning that lead-based ammunition is posing a risk to firearms’ users and their families, with a culture of denial about the issue among the firearms community.
Otago’s emerging researchers secure more than $1.7 million in HRC funding
Thursday, 16 May 2019 12:56pm
An occupational therapist who aims to improve the quality of life for children with disabilities is one of several University of Otago early-stage researchers who have together been awarded more than $1.7 million in Health Research Council funding.
Otago alumna behind UK Government’s move to help cerebral palsy children walk
Wednesday, 1 May 2019 8:32am
An Otago alumna has led a study into spinal surgery for children with cerebral palsy in the UK, which has proven it helps them walk and reduces pain, triggering the UK Government to fund the procedure.
Wood is good, research on 1931 Hawke’s Bay earthquake shows
Tuesday, 16 April 2019 9:52am
New research has found that only three per cent of deaths in the 1931 Hawke’s Bay earthquake occurred in people’s homes, almost all of which were at that time constructed from wood.
Public health experts call for use of “tie-down” practice to be abolished in NZ prisons
Friday, 12 April 2019 11:31am
A University of Otago public health physician and researcher and her Australian colleague welcome news that the use of “tie-down” practice will be abolished in New Zealand prisons.
Housing WOFs need to be combined with education, study shows
Tuesday, 9 April 2019 11:01am
Alongside funding and regulatory support, understanding how housing affects health and safety can spur owners to make improvements to their properties, researchers from the University of Otago, Wellington and WISE Better Homes have found.
Otago researchers encourage New Zealanders to support Arms Amendment Bill
Wednesday, 3 April 2019 4:28pm
University of Otago firearms researchers are encouraging New Zealanders who are not gun owners to support MPs and political parties with the Arms Amendment Bill.
Kiwi kids call for ban on junk food marketing
Friday, 29 March 2019 4:06pm
If Kiwi kids had the Prime Minister’s job for a day, many would ban junk food marketing, according to new research from the University of Otago, Wellington.
Otago researchers call for urgent law change
Sunday, 17 March 2019 12:25pm
Firearms law changes promised by the Prime Minister are long overdue, according to experts in the Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, Dr Marie Russell and Dr Hera Cook.
Liberal access to e-cigarettes likely to bring health benefits, NZ study finds
Tuesday, 12 March 2019 11:16am
New Zealand’s approach of allowing wide access to e-cigarettes is likely to be bringing overall health gains and cost savings for the health system, researchers from the University of Otago, Wellington have found.
‘Invisible wounds’ may have cut WWII veterans’ lives short
Friday, 8 March 2019 9:08am
Kiwi men who were veterans of World War II appear to have had a shorter lifespan than other New Zealand men who were born at the same time, new research shows.
New WHO housing and health guidelines could save millions each year
Monday, 25 February 2019 3:00pm
Preventable injuries and hospitalisations due solely to poor housing conditions in New Zealand could be costing more than $145 million annually in ACC claims and hospitalisation costs, according to new research.
Train station signs send weak smokefree signal
Friday, 22 February 2019 9:58am
More than 20 per cent of the 54 railway stations in the lower North Island have no smokefree signs at all and many others have signs of poor quality, researchers from the University of Otago, Wellington have found.
Surprise te reo Māori finding in pre-diabetes research
Monday, 18 February 2019 2:27pm
New research from the Healthier Lives National Science Challenge has found people who speak te reo Māori have a reduced risk of progressing from pre-diabetes to diabetes.
New Zealand leads global effort to control rheumatic fever
Monday, 11 February 2019 4:20pm
A three-year project aimed at pinpointing the most effective ways to prevent and control rheumatic fever and associated heart disease in New Zealand is being launched tomorrow (Tuesday 12 February) at the University of Otago, Wellington.
One plus one equals more than two for health expenditure in patients with multiple conditions, study finds
Wednesday, 9 January 2019 1:27pm
Caring for patients with two or more chronic diseases costs the health system more than it would to treat each disease in isolation, a new study has shown.
Call for pandemic research fund as “living memorial” to 1918 flu victims
Friday, 14 December 2018 9:11am
Professors from the Department of Public Health at the University of Otago, Wellington are calling on the government to set up a research fund to help prevent pandemics and increase New Zealand’s preparedness to deal with such disasters.
Licence to Swill: James Bond’s drinking over six decades
Monday, 10 December 2018 1:17pm
He may be licensed to kill but fictional British secret service agent James Bond has a severe alcohol use disorder, according to an analysis of his drinking behaviour published in the Medical Journal of Australia’s Christmas issue.
Cycle lanes and walkways cut car use, reduce emissions, study finds
Monday, 3 December 2018 3:32pm
Researchers have shown for the first time that investing in cycle lanes and walkways encourages people to drive less and cuts carbon emissions.
The challenge of reducing health inequities and improving health outcomes in New Zealand
Monday, 19 November 2018 2:21pm
The Healthier Lives – He Oranga Hauora National Science Challenge, hosted by the University of Otago, welcomes the announcement from the Minister of Research, Science and Innovation Hon Megan Woods, confirming funding for its 2019-2024 research strategy
Sobering insights into alcohol marketing and Māori children
Thursday, 1 November 2018 9:07am
Innovative camera research has revealed that New Zealand children are exposed to alcohol marketing in their residential and school neighbourhoods. The collaborative research by the Universities of Otago and Auckland, found children’s exposure to alcohol marketing was higher in neighbourhoods with greater numbers of alcohol outlets and for Māori participants.
WWI cast a long shadow over New Zealanders’ health, study finds
Tuesday, 30 October 2018 10:42am
World War I cast such a long shadow over New Zealand that the health and social impacts continued through to the next generation, public health researchers say.
Increasing alcohol tax could benefit health and save money for society – NZ study
Monday, 29 October 2018 12:52pm
Increasing the excise tax on alcohol would likely result in fewer people dying or being injured in vehicle crashes – and generate savings for society, according to a just-published New Zealand study.
Kiwis failing to slip into shade and slap on a hat for sun protection, researchers find
Friday, 26 October 2018 10:44am
An alarming proportion of New Zealanders are neither wearing hats nor seeking shade to protect themselves from the sun, University of Otago research reveals.
Flavoured capsule cigarettes pose a threat to smokefree goals
Tuesday, 23 October 2018 9:17am
New research from ASPIRE2025, a University of Otago research theme, challenges tobacco companies’ claims they are working towards a smokefree world and suggests young people are vulnerable to tobacco companies’ product innovations.
Education and support for menstrual periods needed at primary school
Wednesday, 3 October 2018 10:30am
Primary school is the correct place to educate girls about periods and provide sanitary bins and pads, say University of Otago researchers.
Tackling diet-related disease in New Zealand
Monday, 3 September 2018 9:54am
Unhealthy diet is the leading preventable risk for poor health in New Zealand. Diet-related diseases (and how we manage them) is becoming a pressing issue for the country.
Otago experts question use of consultants who worked for tobacco industry in NZ tobacco review
Friday, 24 August 2018 2:31pm
University of Otago researchers believe Government actions may be inconsistent with its tobacco treaty obligations by employing a consulting firm that has worked globally for the tobacco industry, to advise on tobacco taxation.
Closing NZ’s border in severe pandemics cost-effective – New study
Thursday, 9 August 2018 7:20am
Closing the border may make sense for New Zealand in some extreme pandemic situations, according to a newly published study of the costs and benefits of taking this step.
Anywhere, anytime: New Zealand children’s exposure to alcohol marketing
Tuesday, 31 July 2018 10:56am
Innovative camera research has revealed New Zealand children are exposed to alcohol marketing on average 4.5 times per day.
Major fundamental changes required to achieve health equity
Monday, 9 July 2018 9:15am
In comparing efforts to address health inequities, researchers in Aotearoa/New Zealand (NZ) and the United States (US) have found that both countries are failing to align policy with evidence-based approaches that could help achieve equity.
Junk food dominates NZ sport
Monday, 9 July 2018 9:03am
Junk food dominates New Zealand sport venues, according to new research led by the University of Otago, Wellington.
Smokefree 2025: An opportunity for big scores by the Government
Friday, 22 June 2018 10:17am
A group of tobacco control experts today published an open letter in the New Zealand Medical Journal calling for bold new actions from the New Zealand Government to achieve the Smokefree 2025 goal.
Almost $19 million awarded to Otago researchers in Health Research Council funding
Monday, 18 June 2018 10:21am
A new study investigating for the first time the health of occupants of leaky homes in New Zealand is one of many University of Otago-led projects being funded this year by the Health Research Council to the tune of almost $19 million.
New Zealand leads call to improve health for indigenous people globally
Friday, 1 June 2018 3:59pm
An open letter published today in a leading international medical journal, Lancet Oncology, calls on the World Health Organization (WHO) and Governments to prioritise health improvements for Indigenous peoples worldwide.
Cold New Zealand council housing getting an upgrade
Wednesday, 30 May 2018 11:17am
University of Otago, Wellington researchers are advocating for standards to bring all New Zealand housing up to the World Health Organization minimum standard which recommends indoor temperature of 18 degrees celcius.
Warning labels on alcohol containers highly deficient, new research shows
Monday, 21 May 2018 2:23pm
Current health warning labels on alcohol beverage containers in New Zealand are highly deficient, new research from the University of Otago, Wellington shows.
Radical new framework for trade and investment treaties
Monday, 14 May 2018 12:44pm
A team from the University of Otago, Wellington has just published a radical new framework for designing international trade and investment treaties.
Study aiming to improve New Zealand’s low breastfeeding rates
Thursday, 3 May 2018 1:24pm
University of Otago, Wellington (UOW) researchers are leading a new collaborative study to find out why New Zealand breastfeeding rates are so low and even dropping.
Otago researchers claim inaugural Māori researcher fellowships
Monday, 30 April 2018 2:25pm
Two University of Otago researchers of Ngāpuhi descent are being rewarded with new prestigious four-year fellowships aimed at providing better health and well-being for Māori.
International agreement provides Otago opportunity to help shape global cancer agenda
Friday, 20 April 2018 2:25pm
In a New Zealand first, the University of Otago has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
Safety warning labels needed on fresh chicken, say researchers
Tuesday, 17 April 2018 9:07am
New research has found that many New Zealand consumers are unaware of the high levels of Campylobacter contamination of fresh chicken and most want safety labelling about the risks on poultry products.
Threats from tobacco industry stalled New Zealand plain packs legislation
Friday, 13 April 2018 12:37pm
Threats of lawsuits by the tobacco industry helped delay the New Zealand legislation for plain tobacco packs by at least three years, new University of Otago research suggests.
New Zealand dentists pick up the pieces when ‘dental tourism’ goes bad
Thursday, 12 April 2018 11:40am
New Zealand dentists are increasingly having to provide remedial treatment where things have gone wrong for “dental tourists” who travel abroad for dental work.
Taxing sugary drinks a no-brainer for New Zealand
Wednesday, 4 April 2018 10:24am
On 1 April 2018, the United Kingdom introduced a sugary drinks tax, an important public health measure that University of Otago, Wellington, public health researchers believe should be happening in New Zealand too.
Evidence from 100 years ago of socio-economic position and shorter lifespans in New Zealand men
Monday, 26 March 2018 10:11am
For the first time, Otago researchers have identified evidence of socio-economic inequalities resulting in different death rates in New Zealand men from 100 years ago.
More sustainable transport for better health in New Zealand cities
Friday, 23 March 2018 1:51pm
Can your local council stop you getting heart disease or cancer? Yes, say researchers in a new study led by the University of Otago, Wellington.
Research suggests promoting smokefree homes may help reduce teen smoking
Thursday, 22 March 2018 1:52pm
New Zealand children and teens growing up in smokefree homes are less likely to take up smoking, even if their parents are smokers, a University of Otago, Wellington, study has found.
Standardised packaging a good move, but Otago researchers call for more in fight against tobacco
Wednesday, 14 March 2018 2:59pm
Today marks the introduction of standardised packaging for tobacco products sold in New Zealand.
Study of smoking among doctors and nurses shows very low smoking prevalence and Smokefree 2025 goal can be achieved
Friday, 9 March 2018 10:57am
A new study on smoking trends among doctors and nurses in New Zealand finds smoking has declined steadily within these healthcare professions. Researchers say this shows that very low smoking rates can be achieved in large occupational groups, suggesting that New Zealand’s Smokefree 2025 goal is reachable.
Teachers suffer post-traumatic stress following ‘quakes – Otago research highlights
Thursday, 1 March 2018 2:56pm
School teachers were among the majority of frontline workers with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following the Christchurch earthquakes, new University of Otago research shows.
Out of prison and back to smoking?
Friday, 23 February 2018 4:20pm
A lack of support means many prisoners relapse back to smoking on release, despite many wanting to stay smokefree, a new study has found.
Considering public health issues- the 22nd Public Health Summer School
Monday, 5 February 2018 9:05am
Leading international and New Zealand health experts will be in Wellington to participate in the 22nd Public Health Summer School run by the University of Otago, Wellington in February. The Public Health Summer School will be officially opened by the Minister of Health, Hon Dr David Clark on 7 February.
Few drinking fountains in New Zealand playgrounds – New study
Friday, 2 February 2018 2:50pm
New research has found that only a fifth (20 per cent) of childrens’ playgrounds in the lower North Island of New Zealand had drinking fountains (11 out of 54 playgrounds).
Predator Free 2050 has major benefits for human health
Monday, 15 January 2018 9:12am
The Predator Free 2050 campaign to rid New Zealand of rats and possums will have major benefits for human health as well as for native plants and animals, says University of Otago, Wellington public health researcher Dr Mary McIntyre.
Shade shortage in Wellington playgrounds: Otago research highlights the need to ‘slip, slop, slap and wrap’ this summer
Tuesday, 9 January 2018 4:51pm
Children visiting playgrounds this summer may be at high risk of sunburn, according to a new study from the University of Otago, Wellington.
Sex advice and Siri? To Google or not to Google? These are the questions
Thursday, 14 December 2017 9:31am
In an article published today in the Christmas issue of the British Medical Journal, New Zealand researchers found that Google laptop searches performed better at finding online sexual health advice than the digital assistants on smartphones.
How do firearms, floods and flu impact public health?
Wednesday, 13 December 2017 8:24am
Firearms and public health, impacts of New Zealand’s most common natural hazard - flooding, and lessons from the 1918 flu pandemic are just some of the courses and seminar talks being offered by the University of Otago, Wellington’s Public Health Summer School.
No hat, no play? Not always: Otago research
Thursday, 7 December 2017 2:44pm
Many children may not be sun-safe during school lunch breaks, research from the University of Otago, Wellington, reveals.
Giving cash without strings attached can improve health
Thursday, 23 November 2017 12:05pm
New research has shown governments can help improve health in low and middle income countries, simply by providing cash to people living in poverty.
Kids in Space Study: Where do our children go?
Thursday, 9 November 2017 9:04am
New Zealand children stick close to home, innovative research from Otago, Auckland and Harvard Universities has revealed.
Small changes can make big differences for tenants, study finds
Friday, 3 November 2017 9:10am
Even minor improvements to new buildings can make a significant difference to tenants’ comfort, new research from the University of Otago, Wellington, has found.
Marsden Fund backs Otago’s research in best ever round
Friday, 3 November 2017 10:04am
University of Otago researchers have gained around $24m for 33 world-class research projects in the latest Marsden Fund annual round – the University’s most successful round ever.
Study shows NZers who cycle and walk for transport are more physically active
Tuesday, 31 October 2017 11:37am
New Zealanders who walk and cycle for transport are much more likely to have adequate levels of physical activity than those who drive cars.
No smokefree signs at New Zealand racecourses, study shows
Friday, 27 October 2017 12:25pm
A survey of New Zealand racecourses and sports grounds with stands has found no smokefree signs at the racecourses and signage at less than half the sports grounds.
Provide more water fountains at playgrounds, say researchers
Thursday, 19 October 2017 11:14am
A new study from the University of Otago, Wellington, has found that only six per cent of Wellington City children’s playgrounds have drinking water fountains.
NZ-China links in non-communicable disease research strengthened
Wednesday, 11 October 2017 2:21pm
The signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) at the University of Otago with three leading Shanghai institutions due to be held tomorrow is a welcome sign of the growing collaborations between New Zealand and Chinese health researchers, according to organisers.
NZ kids can’t escape alcohol marketing next to bread and milk
Tuesday, 10 October 2017 4:19pm
New Zealand children are exposed to alcohol marketing on nearly every visit to the supermarket, innovative camera research from Otago and Auckland Universities reveals.
New research shows NZ children are surrounded by junk food ads
Monday, 9 October 2017 5:25pm
New Zealand children are exposed to around 27 unhealthy food advertisements per day, innovative camera research from Otago and Auckland Universities reveals.
New Zealand teens’ risky behaviour rates reduced since the 1990s
Wednesday, 4 October 2017 11:38am
Overall today’s adolescents are ‘better behaved’ than teens in the 1990s, says a University of Otago, Wellington researcher.
New research shows surge in outdoor smokefree action around NZ
Friday, 22 September 2017 9:42am
Local outdoor smokefree action is rapidly growing around New Zealand, according to new research from the University of Otago, Wellington.
Book shines spotlight on our cities
Tuesday, 19 September 2017 12:02pm
A new book sets out important ideas for helping New Zealand cities resolve the challenges of providing quality, affordable housing, designing healthy transport systems and dealing with climate change.
Canterbury quake damage increased risk of cardiovascular disease
Friday, 8 September 2017 3:32pm
A Healthier Lives National Science Challenge study using New Zealand linked datasets reveals the impact of residential housing damage from the 2010/11 Canterbury earthquakes on hospital admissions for cardiovascular disease.
Study shows most NZ playgrounds lack smokefree signs
Thursday, 24 August 2017 3:48pm
A new study of the smokefree signs at 63 New Zealand playgrounds has found that less than half of the playgrounds (44 per cent) had any such signs. Even when present, many of the signs were small and poorly designed, with some being only postcard sized.
Quitline is good value-for-money - new study
Monday, 21 August 2017 10:52am
A new study from the University of Otago, Wellington has found New Zealand’s Quitline service is a highly cost-effective way to improve health and even saves the health system money.
Rental Warrant of Fitness for Wellington
Thursday, 17 August 2017 9:15am
Wellington City Council is partnering with the University of Otago, Wellington, to launch a voluntary Rental Warrant of Fitness for minimum housing standards in Wellington, Mayor Justin Lester has announced.
New Zealand is falling far short of its Smokefree 2025 goal
Wednesday, 2 August 2017 12:02pm
Smokefree 2025 will be Smokefree 2065 unless urgent government action is taken.
Bowel-cancer screening cost-effective but does not reduce health inequalities
Thursday, 20 July 2017 9:13am
Bowel-cancer screening in New Zealand will improve health cost effectively, according to University of Otago research just published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention.
Thousands of NZ children continue to be exposed to second-hand smoke in cars
Friday, 7 July 2017 11:28am
New evidence shows one in five children continue to be exposed to smoking in cars, and that exposure even increased in 2015.
Pathways to achieve Smokefree NZ – new study
Thursday, 29 June 2017 9:04am
New modelling research has shown the major ways for reducing smoking on the path to New Zealand’s smokefree goal by 2025. University of Otago, Wellington researchers are calling for these new measures to be considered by the New Zealand Government.
Closing the border in extreme pandemics worthwhile – Study
Monday, 26 June 2017 1:07pm
It may sometimes make sense for island nations like New Zealand to temporarily close their borders in extreme pandemic situations, a new study by Wellington researchers suggests.
Research finds flu is a major killer in New Zealand with Māori, Pasifika and low-income earners most vulnerable
Friday, 9 June 2017 12:27pm
New research from the University of Otago, Wellington, shows that influenza kills about 500 New Zealanders each year, and the risk of premature death is much higher for Māori, Pasifika, men and those living in relative poverty.
Setting the world on a course toward sustainable development
Tuesday, 6 June 2017 12:26pm
Not all good policies, in isolation, lead to an overall good outcome. Interactions and linkages between policies are what will lead us towards a more sustainable world, according to a new International Council for Science (ICSU) report.
Improvements to healthcare system needed to manage multimorbidity
Friday, 12 May 2017 9:06am
Living with multiple health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes, is a challenge for increasing numbers of New Zealanders. New research led by the University of Otago, Wellington, has identified issues and improvements needed in the health care system to help patients with multimorbidity (multiple health conditions), their supporters and health care providers.
New research towards a Smokefree Wellington
Thursday, 30 March 2017 8:46am
Progress towards smokefree inner cities in New Zealand requires specific policies for places like building entrances, family areas, public seating, outdoor dining and for city events, say researchers.
Evidence supports nationwide roll-out of home safety measures
Tuesday, 21 March 2017 2:28pm
New evidence from the University of Otago, Wellington shows that government social investment in safer housing would be justified to prevent falls.
Downward trend in disaster events causing mass deaths in NZ (1900 to 2015)
Thursday, 2 March 2017 7:45am
Fewer New Zealanders are now dying in large-scale disaster events but that is not the case across the Tasman, a University of Otago, Wellington study has found.
Cold homes harm NZ youth health and schooling
Monday, 13 February 2017 11:29am
A new study from the University of Otago, Wellington has found that young people are experiencing increased health problems, stress, and adverse social effects from cold housing.
Wellington researchers awarded Long-Term Condition funds to tackle diabetes
Thursday, 9 February 2017 9:07am
Diabetes is one of New Zealand’s fastest growing long-term health conditions with enormous costs for individuals, the health care system and society. This was recognised in today’s announcement by the Health Minister Jonathan Coleman and Science and Innovation Minister Paul Goldsmith for multi-million dollar funding on research to tackle diabetes.
Public health leaders speaking in Wellington through February
Tuesday, 7 February 2017 9:08am
The 21st Public Health Summer School starts at the University of Otago, Wellington today. As part of the Public Health Summer School, the University will host four free evening talks by leading international public health experts throughout February. The Wellington lectures are free and open to the public.
Researchers call for ban on alcohol sponsorship of sport
Friday, 13 January 2017 9:01am
Watching televised sport means watching advertisements for alcohol, say researchers from the University of Otago, Wellington (UOW).
What has art got to do with Public Health?
Tuesday, 13 December 2016 4:40pm
What has art got to do with public health? How can people be “nudged” to better health using behavioural economics? And what emerging infectious diseases should we really worry about?
Cost-effectiveness of Herceptin® for early stage breast cancer varies by age and tumour type
Wednesday, 26 October 2016 9:33am
A new study from the University of Otago, Wellington (UOW) found that the cost-effectiveness of the drug trastuzumab (known more commonly as Herceptin®) in treating early stage breast cancer was highly variable depending on the disease characteristics and age of the woman.
Large Otago study shows New Zealand maternity system needs improvement
Wednesday, 28 September 2016 7:38am
Researchers at the University of Otago, Wellington, have released the findings of a major five-year study of New Zealand’s maternity outcomes.
BLITZ study: A youth vision for Porirua City
Monday, 19 September 2016 1:38pm
A new study from the University of Otago, Wellington, with a unique angle and focus in Porirua city has found that better facilities and affordable activities for youth are urgently needed to achieve social sector change.
Cycling and walking in NZ cities
Thursday, 25 August 2016 10:00am
Cities with higher levels of cycling and walking have better overall population health, according to new research from the University of Otago, Wellington.
Most homeless people working or studying
Wednesday, 24 August 2016 2:02pm
More than half of all homeless adults in New Zealand are working or studying, say University of Otago, Wellington (UOW) researchers.
Radical new law needed to ensure the Smokefree 2025 goal
Friday, 5 August 2016 2:37pm
Sweeping changes to the Smokefree Environments legislation are proposed by University of Otago researchers in a newly published article in the New Zealand Medical Journal.
I whakaputaina he Tirohanga Hauora mō ngā Poari Hauora a-Rohe i roto i te reo Māori
Friday, 8 July 2016 3:02pm
I whakaputaina e Te Rōpū Rangahau Hauora a Eru Pōmare, he rīpoata whakarāpopoto i ngā tatauranga hauora Māori mō ngā Poari Hauora a-Rohe o te motu nei. Koinei te wā tuatahi kua puta ēnei momo tatauranga i roto i te reo Māori.
Removal of point-of-sale tobacco displays working
Tuesday, 5 July 2016 12:06pm
A new study led by University of Otago researchers suggests that July 2012 legislation that removed all point-of-sale tobacco displays from shops selling cigarettes has helped reduce smoking among New Zealand school students to record low levels.
Homelessness accelerates between censuses
Friday, 3 June 2016 11:54am
At least one in every 100 New Zealanders were homeless at the latest census in 2013, compared with 1 in 120 in 2006, and 1 in 130 in 2001, say University of Otago, Wellington (UOW) researchers.
Insulating houses keeps children out of hospital
Wednesday, 27 April 2016 9:09am
A new study from the University of Otago, Wellington has found that retrofitting insulation to current 2008 standards in existing houses reduces hospitalisation rates for all children by six percent.
Much healthier low-cost bread possible
Tuesday, 26 April 2016 10:02am
Bread design could be substantially improved to better protect heart health according to new research. A team at the University of Otago, Wellington studied bread design from the perspective of reducing risk of heart disease, while keeping ingredient costs down.
NZ contributes to global report on Indigenous and tribal peoples
Thursday, 21 April 2016 3:05pm
A world-first study into the health and wellbeing of more than 154 million Indigenous and tribal peoples globally was launched today simultaneously in Melbourne and London, by Australia’s Lowitja Institute and the Lancet journal.
Is austerity bad for your health?
Thursday, 18 February 2016 8:52am
Austerity measures are seriously bad for our health, according to Oxford University Professor David Stuckler, visiting Wellington this week as part of the University of Otago, Wellington Public Health Summer School.
Response to global crisis in indigenous mental health
Tuesday, 16 February 2016 3:23pm
Innovative approaches to address traumatised indigenous communities will be described by Australian educators Barbara Wingard and Dr David Denborough from the Dulwich Centre for Narrative Therapy in Wellington tomorrow.
Promising advances in prevention of rheumatic fever
Tuesday, 9 February 2016 12:45pm
Leading health researchers and practitioners are meeting today to work towards preventing and controlling rheumatic fever across New Zealand and Australia. The experts are gathering at a one-day seminar at the 20th Public Health Summer School run by the University of Otago, Wellington.
Working to improve public health in New Zealand
Monday, 1 February 2016 1:32pm
Leading international and New Zealand health experts will descend on Wellington throughout February to participate in the 20th Public Health Summer School run by the University of Otago, Wellington.
Government failing to adequately address tobacco harm for Māori
Tuesday, 12 January 2016 12:38pm
Māori smoking rates have barely changed since 2011, and the Government is not doing enough to address tobacco-related harm amongst Māori, say leading tobacco researchers and public health advocates.
Wellington start-up in top three at Paris Climate Conference
Monday, 21 December 2015 1:49pm
A Wellington e-commerce start-up with a unique eco-idea to lower CO2 emissions has been placed second in a worldwide competition to tackle climate change at COP21, the 2015 Climate Conference in Paris.
Rental ‘Warrant of Fitness’ to start in Wellington and Dunedin
Thursday, 17 December 2015 11:35am
The University of Otago, Wellington is working with Wellington and Dunedin City Councils on a rental Warrant of Fitness (WoF) to be introduced next year.
What drives urban change in New Zealand?
Tuesday, 8 December 2015 9:38am
A new report about the drivers of urban change in New Zealand by the MBIE-funded Resilient Urban Futures Programme has been launched in Parliament by MPs Nicky Wagner and Grant Robertson. The report ‘Drivers of Urban Change’ brings together the views of key decision-makers and cutting-edge research.
New Healthier Lives Challenge takes aim at NZ’s major killers
Friday, 4 December 2015 11:31am
Innovative research aimed at significantly reducing the death and disease burden of some of New Zealand’s leading health problems will be pursued through the Healthier Lives National Science Challenge launched by the Hon Steven Joyce at Ōtākou Marae on the Otago Peninsula today.
Do New Zealanders still want the quarter-acre dream?
Monday, 2 November 2015 1:38pm
New Zealanders are moving towards the idea of mixed-use development where housing is within walking and cycling distance of key amenities like work, school or shopping, according to a survey carried out by the New Zealand Centre for Sustainable Cities.
Growing public support in the USA and Canada for smokefree outdoor laws
Wednesday, 16 September 2015 10:39am
A new study has found increasing support in the United States and Canada for smokefree laws for outdoor areas, especially in playgrounds and school grounds.
Health benefits of 20 years of tobacco tax increases modelled
Wednesday, 29 July 2015 9:11am
Continuing annual 10% tobacco tax increases in New Zealand until 2031 should lead to health gains, net health-system cost savings and modest reductions of about 2% to 3% in health inequalities between Māori and non-Māori, according to a new study published by University of Otago, Wellington, researchers.
Reducing salt in food good for the heart and health budgets
Monday, 4 May 2015 3:54pm
New Otago University research shows that introducing strategies that reduce the dietary salt intake of New Zealanders could reduce premature death and save millions of dollars annually for our health sector.
Smokefree signage lacking in schools
Thursday, 23 April 2015 3:38pm
Smokefree signage, which is required by law, is absent from many North Island schools, according to University of Otago research.
Overlooked law requires rentals to be free of dampness
Thursday, 16 April 2015 4:22pm
A law, developed in the 1940s to protect people from living in unhealthy homes, could be used to require landlords to provide housing that is free from dampness, according to researchers from the University of Otago and Victoria University of Wellington.
The burgeoning cost of cancer in NZ – study
Tuesday, 14 April 2015 3:00pm
The cost of treating cancer in the New Zealand public health sector is more than $800 million annually – hundreds of millions higher than previous estimates, according to University of Otago research.
New Zealand’s WWI veterans had persisting higher risk of early death – study
Wednesday, 17 December 2014 10:05am
New research on the impact of the First World War on participating New Zealand soldiers shows they typically lost around eight years of life and had an increased risk of early death in the post-war period.
Otago housing and health researchers win Prime Minister’s Science Prize
Tuesday, 2 December 2014 4:32pm
The internationally acclaimed housing and health research team at the University of Otago, Wellington, has won the 2014 Prime Minister’s Science Prize, valued at $500,000.
Influenza estimated to kill about 400 New Zealanders each year
Monday, 24 November 2014 9:49am
New Zealand has an average of 401 influenza-associated deaths each year according to estimates published for the first time.
World-first study proves low-cost home modifications prevent falls
Tuesday, 23 September 2014 10:59am
Falls in the home could be reduced by a quarter according to the results of a new study just published online in top international medical journal The Lancet.
Renters need assistance to improve poor housing conditions - study
Thursday, 18 September 2014 11:46am
Renters are living in poorer conditions than homeowners and are less empowered to improve their housing situation according to a study by medical students at the University of Otago, Wellington.
Study highlights flaw in tobacco industry’s “informed adult choice” stance
Monday, 15 September 2014 11:09am
Flaws in the tobacco industry’s argument that smokers exercise “informed adult choice” when they start smoking have been highlighted in new study.
Science Challenge 11 funding a breakthrough for predominantly-urban New Zealand
Monday, 8 September 2014 2:53pm
The Government’s announcement of funding for Science Challenge 11 is welcome recognition that New Zealand is now predominantly an urban country, says the New Zealand Centre for Sustainable Cities.
Tobacco taxes important, but new approaches also needed – study
Wednesday, 3 September 2014 2:33pm
A just-published study suggests tobacco tax increases will need to be supplemented with other new approaches if New Zealand’s Smokefree 2025 goal is to be achieved.
Political parties to be questioned on needs of children
Wednesday, 3 September 2014 9:57am
Political party representatives will be asked to outline their policies in three key areas relating to the needs of children at a public forum being hosted this Friday by the University of Otago, Wellington (UOW).
Study on causes of rheumatic fever gets underway in Auckland
Monday, 1 September 2014 10:04am
A study to identify and better understand risk factors for rheumatic fever – one of New Zealand’s most mysterious and serious illnesses – starts recruiting participants in Auckland this week.
Needs of Māori a priority to address poor stomach cancer survival - researchers
Thursday, 21 August 2014 2:26pm
New research shows that Māori diagnosed with stomach cancer are 27% less likely to survive than non-Māori, prompting calls for recently-released national stomach cancer standards to prioritise the needs of Māori.
Many drinks children associate with sport are largely unhealthy - study
Friday, 8 August 2014 11:47am
Urgent action is needed to help children and parents make healthier choices when it comes to the drinks children consume when playing sport, say University of Otago, Wellington researchers.
More political momentum needed to achieve Smokefree 2025 goal
Wednesday, 23 July 2014 11:24am
New research published in the New Zealand Medical Journal by ASPIRE 2025 researchers suggests the Government’s goal to achieve a Smokefree New Zealand by 2025 may be failing to gather the political momentum needed to ensure it is achieved.
Wellington’s street-connecting walkways could be better - study
Wednesday, 23 July 2014 11:20am
Graffiti, litter, and insufficient lighting and signage on Wellington’s street-connecting walkways are likely to be discouraging their use, researchers say.
Improving prepayment electricity schemes could benefit households
Monday, 21 July 2014 11:49am
As power prices continue in an upward trend as reported in the latest Consumer Price Index, a new study shows households looking to find ways to make savings could benefit from using prepayment metering.
HPV vaccination for school boys not yet cost-effective – study
Monday, 14 July 2014 12:11pm
HPV vaccination of New Zealand school boys is not yet a value-for-money option, according to a study just published by the University of Otago, Wellington.
Successful community action – but smokefree car law
still needed to protect children
Friday, 4 July 2014 9:05am
Newly-published research shows the potential for community campaigns to reduce smoking in cars, but legislation is still critical to ensure children are protected the authors say.
Breast cancer screening programme targets women too soon: researchers
Thursday, 26 June 2014 12:15pm
New Zealand should re-consider the age at which its breast cancer screening programme starts in light of growing questions about the balance of benefits and harms for women under 50, public health experts from the University of Otago Wellington say.
Decline in funding for mass media campaigns undermines smokefree 2025 goal
Wednesday, 25 June 2014 11:43am
A steady decline in funding for mass media campaigns to promote smoking reduction is undermining the Government’s goal to achieve a smokefree New Zealand by 2025, warn ASPIRE 2025 researchers.
Medical conditions add to premature mortality risk of people with mental illness
Friday, 23 May 2014 9:20am
People using mental health services in New Zealand are dying prematurely from both natural and external causes, a new University of Otago Wellington study has revealed.
Study provides new insights in to health system cost of living and dying in New Zealand
Friday, 2 May 2014 10:45am
A just-published study showing how public spending on health varies by age and proximity to death raises interesting questions about the best use of taxpayer funds, the authors say.
Anti-cancer vaccine proves cost effective: but coverage needs improving
Tuesday, 15 April 2014 1:12pm
The New Zealand Government’s investment in HPV vaccination for girls is a “good value-for-money” way to protect health, a just-published study by the University of Otago Wellington (UOW) shows.
Study of 1000s of NZ fruit & vege prices shows markets best value
Tuesday, 25 March 2014 2:10pm
A family of four could save as much as $49 per week by buying their fruit and vegetables at markets other than from a supermarket, a University of Otago Wellington study shows.
High level of smoking around others at bus stops - study
Wednesday, 5 March 2014 10:11am
A study of bus stops in the Wellington Region has identified high levels of smoking around other people and high levels of butt littering.
Roll-your-owns less natural and at least as harmful as tailor-made cigarettes
Wednesday, 12 February 2014 8:59am
Poorer smokers may favour “roll your own” and many falsely believe that use of loose tobacco is less dangerous than factory-made cigarettes, according to a University of Otago public health researcher writing in the British Medical Journal.
Māori leaders join together to inspire new suicide prevention approaches in wake of latest figures
Tuesday, 4 February 2014 3:25pm
Māori, Pacific and indigenous leaders will next week join youth workers, teachers, community activists and others at a Wellington symposium to examine and inspire new approaches to Māori, Pacific and indigenous suicide prevention.
Rheumatic fever research partnership projects gain major support
Monday, 16 December 2013 3:00pm
University of Otago, Wellington researchers have been awarded major funding for two projects aimed at reducing the incidence and impact of rheumatic fever in New Zealand.
Exposure to harmful housing conditions common among hospitalised children
Friday, 13 December 2013 9:58am
A high proportion of children admitted to Wellington Hospital in winter are exposed to harmful housing conditions, according to a new University of Otago Wellington study.
Symposium explores new approaches to Māori suicide prevention
Thursday, 12 December 2013 2:19pm
New approaches to Māori and indigenous suicide prevention will be examined at a symposium on 10 February as part of the University of Otago Wellington Public Health Summer School.
Government losing millions due to foreign cigarettes
Wednesday, 27 November 2013 10:11am
The New Zealand Government is losing up to $89.1 million per annum in tax revenue due to tobacco brought in to the country from overseas, ASPIRE 2025 researchers estimate.
New Zealand sport “awash with junk food”
Thursday, 7 November 2013 3:25pm
New Zealand sport is “awash with junk food” according to researchers from the University of Otago, Wellington (UOW).
Modern analysis casts new light on WW1 deaths – Study
Friday, 1 November 2013 4:43pm
New research on injury-related deaths among New Zealand military forces in the First World War supports the idea that several preventive measures could have significantly reduced the death toll.
New research shows children need protection from smoking in cars
Tuesday, 1 October 2013 10:58am
New research published in a leading international journal shows young people’s exposure to secondhand smoke in cars in New Zealand remains high, particularly among Māori and Pacific people, low socio-economic groups and those whose parents smoke.
34,000 people missing out on housing, University of Otago research shows
Monday, 23 September 2013 8:00am
An estimated 34,000 people, or about one in every 120 New Zealanders, were unable to access housing in 2006, according to the latest available census and emergency housing data, say University of Otago, Wellington (UOW) researchers.
