He Kete Kōrero – Autumn 2017
Thursday, 18 May 2017 1:50pm
The Autumn 2017 edition of the University of Otago, Wellington newsletter.
New appointment for the University of Otago in Tairāwhiti
Wednesday, 17 May 2017 11:43am
Dr Diana Kopua (nee Rangihuna) has been appointed to the new part-time role of Associate Dean, Tairāwhiti, by the University of Otago, Wellington. She will be providing support for all Otago students in the Tairāwhiti (Gisborne) region, including Wairoa.
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.
Turning healthcare around: Health professionals learning together makes for better healthcare
Thursday, 13 April 2017 8:41am
Poor communication between clinicians can turn health care into a bad experience. The University of Otago, Wellington (UOW) is turning this around through an interprofessional education (IPE) programme introduced in recent years for students across the disciplines – dietetics, medicine, physiotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Probiotics may reduce risk of gestational diabetes
Tuesday, 4 April 2017 2:06pm
Research led by the University of Otago, Wellington has found that a ‘home-grown’ naturally occurring probiotic reduces the risk of developing diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes) and lowers fasting blood sugar.
Health Research Council supports Otago researchers
Thursday, 30 March 2017 8:18am
Several University of Otago researchers have gained feasibility grants from the Health Research Council of New Zealand (HRC) in its latest funding round. The HRC yesterday announced a combined total of $2 million worth of these grants, up from $1.05 million in 2016.
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.
Major science event presents latest research on our “Diabesity” epidemic
Friday, 17 March 2017 9:32am
Getting teenagers more active and how our gut hormones impact on obesity are just two of a wide range of topics being discussed at a major gathering of top national and international researchers at Auckland City Hospital today.
Otago’s flagship research centres confirmed
Wednesday, 15 March 2017 9:56am
The University of Otago has reconfigured the line-up of its flagship research centres after a rigorous evaluation process.
Major support for Otago health research provided through latest lottery grants
Thursday, 9 March 2017 1:57pm
University of Otago researchers have gained more than $2.6m in funding from the Lottery Grants Board to support studies aimed at improving the health status of New Zealanders.
Otago welcomes world university subject ranking results
Wednesday, 8 March 2017 4:13pm
The University of Otago welcomed today’s release of the 2017 QS World University Rankings by Subject, in which Otago ranked among the top 50 institutions in the world in five subject areas and among the top 100 in 12.
Otago researchers receive new joint pharmaceuticals research funding
Thursday, 2 March 2017 4:32pm
Researchers from University of Otago are among the first recipients of two new grants from PHARMAC and the Health Research Council of New Zealand (HRC).
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.
Otago gains funding to engage young minds with science
Friday, 17 February 2017 12:22pm
Four University of Otago initiatives are among the latest projects to be successfully awarded a total of $2m in the 2017 Unlocking Curious Minds funding round. The fund particularly focuses on projects that engage young New Zealanders who have fewer opportunities to be involved with science and technology.
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.
Die Another Day: Bond smoking research gains wide attention
Thursday, 9 February 2017 10:32pm
Otago research which examines the smoking habits of James Bond and his associates has gained widespread media attention, and is the subject of a British Medical Journal (BMJ) podcast.
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.
Hurricanes find new way to get even fitter
Monday, 23 January 2017 9:48am
The defending Super Rugby champions, the Hurricanes, are using the Wellington GEnESiS chamber to train for the upcoming season.
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).
Medicinal Cannabis – harms or benefits? Who decides?
Wednesday, 21 December 2016 9:25am
Wellington researchers are calling for doctors to be more involved in the debate around cannabis as a medicine.
Otago academics made full professor
Wednesday, 14 December 2016 2:25pm
Seventeen leading academics from across the University of Otago’s Dunedin, Christchurch, and Wellington campuses are being promoted to full professor.
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?
Māori medical student graduates create history
Wednesday, 7 December 2016 10:56am
The largest number of Māori medical students in New Zealand’s history will graduate from the University of Otago on Saturday 10 December.
Wellington’s new simulation suite to aid obesity research
Tuesday, 6 December 2016 8:44pm
A new environmental simulation suite at the University’s Wellington campus will help researchers test ideas such as whether modern office environments might be contributing to the world’s growing obesity rates.
Values emphasised at Wellington awards ceremony
Thursday, 1 December 2016 2:27pm
Staff and students at the University’s Wellington campus attended a wonderful student awards ceremony on Friday 18 November to finish off what had been a difficult week of earthquakes and floods in the Wellington region.
Medical Evacuation from the South Pole
Monday, 28 November 2016 2:27pm
One of our graduates from the Postgraduate Diploma in Aeromedical Retrieval and Transport at UOW featured recently in a story on Otago alumni. Dr Hamish Wright was the medical physician at the South Pole this winter and he assisted in a world-first medical evacuation of two patients in extreme conditions in the middle of winter this year.
Wellington and Christchurch staff thanked for earthquake efforts
Thursday, 24 November 2016 12:48pm
Staff and students at the University of Otago’s campuses in Wellington and Christchurch are being praised for their patience and hard work following last Monday’s major earthquake.
Amazon humidity and Everest Base Camp altitude...in Wellington
Wednesday, 23 November 2016 10:29am
Researchers can now explore complex health questions in a unique environmental simulation suite at the University of Otago, Wellington.
Major Marsden funding for Otago researchers
Thursday, 3 November 2016 2:38pm
University of Otago researchers have been awarded more than $13.7M in the latest annual Marsden Fund round to undertake 23 world-class research projects that push the boundaries of knowledge in their fields.
Otago health researchers gain career development awards
Thursday, 3 November 2016 4:05pm
University of Otago, Christchurch, MRI expert Dr Tracy Melzer has been awarded $500,000 from the Health Research Council (HRC) to study changes in the brain that could predict dementia.
Akoranga pūtaiao i roto i te reo Māori
Tuesday, 1 November 2016 1:54pm
Viewing eyeballs through a microscope and discovering the huge numbers of cells in a “single eyeball slice” was one of the highlights for Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ngā Mokopuna students on a recent visit to the University of Otago, Wellington.
Artwork gifted to University of Otago
Thursday, 27 October 2016 2:29pm
A large-scale artwork by renowned New Zealand sculptor Paul Dibble is being gifted to the University of Otago by the Stuart Residence Halls Council, to celebrate its 75th anniversary.
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.
Researchers identify urgent needs for Porirua City youth
Wednesday, 26 October 2016 8:55am
Researchers from the University of Otago, Wellington, have recently completed a study in Porirua City that found better facilities and affordable activities for youth are urgently needed to achieve social sector change.
University of Otago and Ngāti Toa Rangatira renew partnership
Monday, 17 October 2016 12:22pm
The University of Otago this week renewed an important Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira. The MoU was signed at a ceremony at the University of Otago Wellington by Te Taku Parai, chair of Te Rūnanga, Sir Matiu Rei, Te Rūnanga Executive Director, and John Ward, Chancellor of the University.
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.
Kids'Cam in Tonga
Wednesday, 14 September 2016 1:03pm
Researchers from the University’s Wellington campus have started working with camera and GPS-wearing children in Tonga.
Otago researchers gain major science funding for innovative projects
Wednesday, 14 September 2016 7:18am
Six innovative Otago research projects have been supported through the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) 2016 Endeavour Fund round announced yesterday.
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.
Kids’Cam in Tonga
Tuesday, 16 August 2016 4:14pm
Researchers from the University’s Wellington campus have started working with camera and GPS-wearing children in Tonga.
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.
Tairāwhiti Interprofessional Programme is the people’s choice
Thursday, 28 July 2016 9:55am
A University of Otago, Wellington interprofessional health team won the People’s Choice Award in a competition which involved creating a healthcare plan for a client with complex needs.
EXPIRED
Tuesday, 26 July 2016 1:38pm
EXPIRED
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.
New partnership formed to improve health of New Zealanders
Thursday, 23 June 2016 11:39am
A new partnership comprising the Healthier Lives National Science Challenge, the Ministry of Health and the Health Research Council of New Zealand (HRC) has been formed to invest in research that will improve understanding, treatment and prevention of long term conditions.
Funding body gives strong support to Otago’s health research
Wednesday, 15 June 2016 2:30pm
University of Otago researchers have been awarded around $43.8M in new health research funding to support their world-class studies aimed at improving New Zealanders’ health and well-being.
Innovative Tairāwhiti programme scores well
Monday, 13 June 2016 12:35pm
A new study has shown that a rural health professional programme on the East Coast of the North Island near Gisborne is highly successful for students, patients and the local community.
New Lectureship in Theology and Public Issues
Wednesday, 8 June 2016 12:53pm
The University of Otago Department of Theology and Religion has announced a new three-year appointment in Theology and Public Issues, based at St. John’s in the City Presbyterian Church, Wellington.
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.
Novel nicotine inhaler doubles smoking quit rates
Tuesday, 17 May 2016 9:46am
A study by researchers at the University of Otago, Wellington shows that smokers who used a nicotine inhaler were twice as likely to quit smoking as smokers using a placebo inhaler.
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.
Latest Lottery grants fund wide range of Otago health research
Thursday, 14 April 2016 10:28am
University of Otago researchers have been awarded around $1.7M in funding from the Lottery Grants Board to support studies focusing on improving New Zealanders’ health.
Improving the breast cancer journey for women with experience of mental illness
Monday, 11 April 2016 2:13pm
Researchers at the University of Otago, Wellington are seeking participants for a study to investigate the breast cancer care journey for women with mental illness in order to improve their care.
University and Kura experiment with science in te reo Māori
Monday, 4 April 2016 3:07pm
Experiments that extract DNA from saliva and use disclosing tablets to look at plaque on teeth may not be new, but the University of Otago, Wellington, and Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ngā Mokopuna are doing these experiments in te reo Māori.
Barriers to contraception for indigenous Māori teenage mothers
Thursday, 31 March 2016 3:20pm
A new study from the University of Otago, Wellington, has found that there are health system barriers for young Māori mothers when trying to access timely contraception.
A new take on supporting very large patients
Monday, 7 March 2016 12:52pm
Devising ways to better support very large patients is the focus of a collaboration between researchers at the University of Otago's Wellington campus, Victoria University and the health care industry.
Lecturers’ teaching excellence rewarded
Monday, 29 February 2016 11:59am
Four outstanding lecturers have been honoured in this year’s University of Otago Teaching Excellence Awards, presented at a ceremony at the Clocktower building this afternoon.
Antipsychotic drug clozapine found to have significant gastrointestinal side effects
Wednesday, 24 February 2016 11:36am
New research from the University of Otago, Wellington, and Capital and Coast Health District Health Board (CCDHB) shows that the antipsychotic drug clozapine dramatically slows bowel function. Rarely, this can lead to serious or life-threatening consequences.
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.
Cancer Society award for Professor Brett Delahunt
Monday, 14 December 2015 4:19pm
Professor Brett Delahunt’s exceptional, long-standing voluntary service and leadership to cancer research has been acknowledged by the Cancer Society of New Zealand.
Closer links with Wellington community aim of new Deputy Dean
Monday, 14 December 2015 12:05pm
Dr Diane Kenwright has recently been appointed to the role of Deputy Dean of the University of Otago’s Wellington campus.
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.
Bodies and bugs: Curious kids doing cool science
Friday, 4 December 2015 8:23am
A pilot project that will help connect children’s innate curiosity with real life science is about to start at the University of Otago, Wellington.
Study identifies new risk factors for stroke
Thursday, 19 November 2015 12:24pm
New research from the University of Otago, Wellington, has identified new risk factors for secondary stroke in patients who have suffered a ‘mini-stroke’ or transient ischaemic attack (TIA). The findings open the way for developing potential new treatments to prevent subsequent full strokes, the researchers believe.
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.
Otago study links midwifery experience to survival chances of babies
Wednesday, 21 October 2015 11:52am
University of Otago researchers have found strong evidence that levels of midwifery experience in New Zealand are associated with baby mortality. The study has been published today in the International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics.
District Health Board Māori Health Profiles for 2015 released
Thursday, 15 October 2015 4:59pm
Twenty reports which provide snapshots of Māori health in District Health Board regions all around New Zealand have been released today.
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.
Unlocking ‘Big Data’ medical information
Tuesday, 15 September 2015 3:25pm
New Zealand researchers have developed a new way of extracting and classifying important information from the ‘Big Data’ stored in hundreds of thousands of electronic health records.
Portable technology for neurocritical care
Monday, 14 September 2015 12:00pm
Portable technology for neurocritical care
New Zealand solutions to complex Public Health problems
Friday, 28 August 2015 8:49am
A new book, Promoting Health in Aotearoa New Zealand, provides an in-depth scan of the health promotion landscape in New Zealand. It explores ways in which Māori, and other perspectives, have been melded with Western ideas to produce distinctly New Zealand approaches. In doing so it addresses the need for locally written material for use in teaching and practice, and provides direction for those wanting to solve complex public health problems.
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.
New care model for Māori children with asthma recommended
Friday, 24 July 2015 4:33pm
A new University of Otago, Wellington, research report has found that the main barriers to optimal health literacy—and therefore optimal care for Māori children with asthma—are structural and endemic to New Zealand’s acute care model of health delivery.
Self-management techniques helping people manage suicidal thoughts
Tuesday, 23 June 2015 11:33am
Self-management techniques need to be more widely acknowledged by mental health professionals as an option to help people who felt suicidal and better support provided to help them develop their own self-management strategies, according to new University of Otago research.
Otago anaesthetist develops unique monitoring software
Tuesday, 16 June 2015 12:07pm
An anaesthetist at the University’s Wellington campus has created a state-of-the-art monitoring system that warns of potential patient issues in plain spoken English.
Otago study highlights at-risk group leaving hospital without contraception
Tuesday, 16 June 2015 10:35am
Women with near-fatal illnesses during pregnancy have been leaving New Zealand hospitals without the contraception that could prevent future serious harm to their health, a study by University of Otago, Wellington, has found.
Innovative health research at Otago receives major funding
Thursday, 4 June 2015 9:54am
University of Otago researchers have been awarded more than $30M in new health research funding to support their world-class studies aimed at improving New Zealanders’ health and well-being.
Quitting smokers win cash reward
Friday, 29 May 2015 9:40am
It is World Smokefree Day this Sunday, and two former smokers have won money by quitting as part of a University of Otago Wellington trial funded by the Ministry of Health.
Otago science outreach projects to help ‘unlock curious minds’
Thursday, 28 May 2015 3:10pm
The University of Otago will lead three new and innovative projects aimed at engaging New Zealanders, and young people in particular, to learn more about science and technology.
Researchers funded to pursue projects benefiting NZ health
Tuesday, 26 May 2015 8:38am
Three researchers from the University of Otago’s Wellington Campus have been awarded Health Research Council Grants (HRC).
Otago health researchers supported by lottery grants
Monday, 25 May 2015 8:38am
University of Otago researchers have gained nearly $2.2M in funding from the Lottery Grants Board to support studies aimed at improving the health status of New Zealanders.
New Zealand’s maternity statistics should be better – expert
Wednesday, 20 May 2015 8:33am
New Zealand should be one of the safest places in the world to give birth with maternity statistics that are as good as or better than most other countries, says Professor Stacie Geller, an international maternal morbidity and mortality expert.
High rate of harassment of our MPs, their staff and families
Friday, 8 May 2015 10:26am
Harassment of New Zealand politicians, their families and staff is ‘common and concerning’, according to new Otago University research.
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.
Fall prevention findings being presented to Taranaki community
Tuesday, 7 April 2015 10:46am
Fall prevention findings being presented to Taranaki community
Violence imagery in music videos sparks call for tougher controls
Monday, 30 March 2015 10:12am
Violence imagery in music videos sparks call for tougher controls
Gift to enhance the future care of our most fragile babies
Tuesday, 24 March 2015 9:58am
Our most vulnerable babies may in the future get an even better start to life and have fewer long-term health problems due to the kindness of The Neonatal Trust New Zealand and ICAP New Zealand.
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 researchers join new global Urban Health and Wellbeing Programme
Tuesday, 16 December 2014 1:59pm
New Zealand researchers are adding their expertise in housing and health to a newly launched global consortium of science and health organisations known as the Urban Health and Wellbeing Programme.
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.
Memorandum of Agreement acknowledges important and enduring relationship
Wednesday, 12 November 2014 9:25am
The signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between Kōkiri Marae Seaview and Tū Kotahi Māori Asthma Trust and the University of Otago next week will formalise a relationship that began more than 30 years ago.
Low-risk prostate cancer patients will benefit from active surveillance guidelines
Wednesday, 15 October 2014 11:17am
New guidelines for active surveillance of prostate cancer will improve health outcomes for those with low grade diagnoses, according to two University of Otago, Wellington (UOW) experts who had input in to the international recommendations.
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.
Learning science in te reo Māori
Thursday, 18 September 2014 12:51pm
The University of Otago, Wellington (UOW) Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine recently hosted Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ngā Mokopuna for two days of science, in an exciting initiative aimed at exposing year 9 to 13 Kura students to science not usually offered at their school.
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.
TransTasman collaboration leads to new rotavirus vaccine
Thursday, 4 September 2014 11:15am
A new rotavirus vaccine that has the potential to save over half a million lives worldwide each year has reached a pivotal milestone after clinical trials results found the vaccine provided a strong immune response in over 90 per cent of babies that received a course of the vaccine.
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.
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.
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.
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.
New Health Star Rating nutrition label may not be best format
Monday, 30 June 2014 10:18am
University of Otago researchers are questioning the likely effectiveness of new Health Star Rating nutrition labels that may soon be seen on the front of food packages in New Zealand and Australia.
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.
Thyroid cancer risk in New Zealand highest among Pacific women
Friday, 6 June 2014 4:14pm
Just-published research shows Pacific women have the highest rates of thyroid cancer in New Zealand.
Smoking cessation trial prompts call for subsidies on wider range of quit therapies
Thursday, 29 May 2014 9:24am
Community smoking-cessation workers are calling for the government to subsidise a wider range of nicotine replacement therapies so that smokers can afford to use products that are proving to be more popular and effective for those trying to quit.
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.
Pregnant Māori teens let down by system despite positive health-seeking behaviour
Friday, 2 May 2014 10:13am
A new study dispels the myth that young pregnant Māori women delay access to antenatal care in their first trimester.
Mall therapy a hit, but cost still a barrier
Tuesday, 29 April 2014 10:18am
A novel trial that offers smokers the chance to try nicotine replacement therapies through kiosks in community locations is offering ongoing discounts on the most popular products to help people stick with their decision to quit.
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.
Distance aviation medicine class "very close"
Friday, 7 March 2014 11:40am
Dr Benjapol Engkaninan’s childhood dream for an aerospace-related career was reignited when he began working with three aviation physicians in Thailand, inspiring him to enroll at Otago in the world’s leading distance course in aviation medicine.
30 courses - 3 weeks - Otago's Public Health Summer School in Wellington
Friday, 7 March 2014 3:31pm
Find out about the University of Otago Public Health Summer School held in Wellington in 2017.
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.
Smokers respond to spur of the moment chance to quit
Monday, 24 February 2014 11:20am
A novel trial that has been underway for a month at Queensgate mall in Lower Hutt has seen 256 smokers take up the chance to try nicotine replacement therapy on the spur of the moment.
Good intentions, but inadequate sun protection practices at early childhood centres - study
Friday, 14 February 2014 4:34pm
Inadequate sun protection policies and practices at early childhood centres (ECCs) in New Zealand could be putting children at risk of skin cancer later in life, a new study shows.
Skin reactions during radiation therapy preventable: new finding
Thursday, 13 February 2014 9:53am
Severe skin reactions during radiation therapy could be prevented by applying a thin transparent silicone dressing to the skin from the first day of treatment, a clinical trial shows.
Roll-your-owns less natural and at least as harmful as tailor-made cigarettes
Wednesday, 12 February 2014 2:05pm
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.
Severe illness in pregnancy preventable in many cases
Friday, 7 February 2014 9:56am
As many as 40% of cases where pregnant women are admitted to intensive care units due to severe illness are potentially preventable, according to University of Otago Wellington researchers.
Study prompts call for ban on manipulative junk food advertising to children
Friday, 7 February 2014 9:25am
A ban on manipulative junk food advertising to children is urgently needed to help fight increasing rates of childhood obesity, say University of Otago Wellington researchers.
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.
University of Otago trial takes help directly to smokers
Wednesday, 15 January 2014 3:01pm
A novel trial which offers smokers the chance to try nicotine replacement therapy on the spur of the moment as they go about their daily lives has started in Wellington.
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.
Single mothers most at risk of poor mental health
Monday, 16 December 2013 8:31am
Single parents tend to have poorer mental health than partnered parents, with single mothers particularly at risk, new research from the University of Otago Wellington (UOW) shows.
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.
Cat and dog allergens on soft toys a risk for asthmatics
Monday, 9 December 2013 2:10pm
Children’s soft toys can harbour high levels of cat and dog allergens as well as house dust mite allergens, according to new research by the University of Otago, Wellington.
Prestigious medals presented to three leading Otago researchers
Thursday, 28 November 2013 4:32pm
Three University of Otago researchers’ outstanding achievements were recognised through the bestowing of prestigious national medals at last night’s 2013 Research Honours Dinner.
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.
HRC supports Otago’s up-and-coming Māori and Pacific health researchers
Tuesday, 26 November 2013 3:25pm
Two University of Otago researchers have gained top Māori and Pacific health research awards from the Health Research Council (HRC) to pursue studies into testicular cancer and heart disease, respectively.
Clinicians influence patients’ attitudes to back pain
Tuesday, 12 November 2013 3:25pm
Although people with low back pain consult with the Internet, family and friends for information and understanding of their symptoms, new research shows health care professionals appear to have the strongest influence on patients’ attitudes and beliefs.
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.
Breakthrough for diagnosis and outcome prediction for kidney cancers
Tuesday, 22 October 2013 9:13am
A new classification of renal tumours that a leading University of Otago pathologist has helped develop is set to enhance the ability to develop treatments and more accurately predict outcomes for patients.
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.
Changing social circumstances influence smoking
Thursday, 12 September 2013 4:50pm
Reducing people’s deprivation through wider social policy should help reduce smoking rates significantly according to new research from the University of Otago, Wellington.
New book points the way on housing affordability
Monday, 19 August 2013 3:50pm
A decent supply of affordable and social housing requires a concerted effort from government and the private sector as well as community groups, says Professor Philippa Howden-Chapman from the University of Otago, Wellington.
Cold bedrooms harm children’s lungs: Otago research
Friday, 16 August 2013 9:52am
New findings from the Housing and Health Research Programme/He Kainga Oranga at the University of Otago show even small changes in indoor temperatures affect children’s lungs.
New findings on health loss and where gains might be made
Thursday, 8 August 2013 4:13pm
The Ministry of Health has just released a new “Burden of Disease” study for New Zealand – a culmination of many years of study into disability, disease and premature death.
More evidence needed to determine if in-work tax credits provide health benefits for parents
Thursday, 8 August 2013 4:50pm
A just-published international systematic review has found a small and methodologically limited body of evidence which suggests that in-work tax credits such as the one applied in New Zealand since 2006, may have no discernible effects on the health of parents.
‘Warrant of Fitness’ for rental houses will soon be available
Friday, 2 August 2013 2:25pm
The Housing and Health Research Programme/He Kainga Oranga at the University of Otago, Wellington and the New Zealand Green Building Council are co-operating to develop a new test that could pass or fail houses with a ‘Warrant of Fitness’ (WoF) type assessment.
Early results show potential for new way to quit
Wednesday, 31 July 2013 9:11am
A ground-breaking trial of a world-first nicotine inhaler developed by the University of Otago, Wellington has been underway for a month now, with some significant results.
Dampness key cause of asthma in children
Thursday, 27 June 2013 10:47am
The largest-ever worldwide study of the link between damp homes and respiratory and allergic conditions has significant implications for New Zealand children’s health.
A new way to quit: why smoke when you can inhale?
Thursday, 27 June 2013 12:06pm
Smokers in the Wellington region are being invited to take part in a ground-breaking trial of a world-first nicotine inhaler which has been developed by the University of Otago, Wellington.
Household crowding key cause of hospital admissions: Otago research
Friday, 7 June 2013 11:47am
One in 10 admissions to hospital in New Zealand to treat infectious diseases such as pneumonia, meningococcal disease and tuberculosis are the direct result of household crowding a new study has found.
In-Work Tax Credit does not improve health of parents
Thursday, 30 May 2013 9:23am
Researchers from the University of Otago, Wellington have found that the In-Work Tax Credit, which has been applied in New Zealand since 2006, has no discernible effect on the health of parents.
Hazards in homes and gardens a major injury cost
Tuesday, 30 April 2013 9:49am
A significant proportion of injuries in the home, costing millions of dollars a year, are related to how a house is built and maintained, according to new research from the University of Otago, Wellington.
Rotorua’s hydrogen sulphide does not worsen asthma
Wednesday, 3 April 2013 9:46am
In a recently published collaborative study by the University of Otago, Wellington, the University of California, Berkeley, and Stanford University it has been shown that there are no ill effects from low level hydrogen sulphide gas on asthma symptoms or diagnosis in Rotorua. Hydrogen sulphide or H2S is responsible for the characteristic “sulphur” smell of Rotorua.
Summer studentships’ health research
Monday, 18 March 2013 10:37am
The Summer Studentship Programme, based at the University of Otago’s Wellington campus, has recently presented the results of its ten week summer medical, public health and science research projects. The 40 students are from the University of Otago’s Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin campuses, along with Auckland and Victoria Universities.
Prepayment electricity metering leaves children in the cold
Friday, 15 March 2013 8:55am
A study by the University of Otago, Wellington just published in the New Zealand Medical Journal finds that households with children that use prepayment meters to pay for electricity experience greater levels of economic hardship. Problems reported by families running out of credit, or ‘self-disconnecting’ as the industry describes it, included not being able to heat baby’s bottles, cook for or bathe their children, and increased family tension.
New radiation therapy training system benefits both patients and students
Wednesday, 13 March 2013 3:25pm
A world-leading ‘virtual radiation therapy training system’ which will radically improve the teaching of radiation therapy and facilitate cancer patients’ treatment will be launched by the Minister of Health, Tony Ryall, at the University of Otago, Wellington (UOW) this Thursday.
Lowering salt intake in diets important and very feasible
Monday, 11 March 2013 10:21am
A newly published study has found that it would be relatively easy for New Zealanders to reach recommended levels of lower salt intake to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and stomach cancer. This is even if some meals have occasional high salt ingredients such as sausages or other processed foods.
Demystifying Addiction – An Online Educational Resource
Wednesday, 6 March 2013 10:21am
A new free online educational resource has been developed by health researchers from the University of Otago, Wellington to help people learn about addiction directly from those who have experienced it.
Smartphone app shows Australians smoke less in cars than New Zealanders
Monday, 4 March 2013 9:54am
Research just published indicates that New South Wales has one third of the people smoking in cars compared to New Zealand. Of nearly 5000 cars observed in Sydney, only 1% had smokers, compared to 2.9% of 10,000 cars in New Zealand.
Food, fizzy, and football: unhealthy food and drink promoted through sport
Thursday, 14 February 2013 9:51am
Public health researchers from the University of Otago, Wellington (UOW), are concerned that some food and drink companies selling unhealthy food also sponsor popular, televised sports in New Zealand.
Smokefree playground policies can make a difference
Wednesday, 23 January 2013 8:49am
British and New Zealand playgrounds have a significantly smaller proportion of people smoking than other types of public outdoor areas, according to latest research from the University of Otago, Wellington.
First time parenting a positive experience for mental health
Tuesday, 22 January 2013 2:17pm
Becoming a parent for the first time may improve mental health and reduce levels of psychological distress, according to a new study from the University of Otago, Wellington (UOW).
Study finds the cheapest emergency food to stockpile
Friday, 14 December 2012 4:55pm
Storage foods for an emergency such as an earthquake that meet all daily energy requirements can cost as little as $2.22 per day according to a new study by the University of Otago, Wellington.
Shocking disparities in child obesity now exist in New Zealand
Wednesday, 12 December 2012 9:58am
Public health researcher Professor Tony Blakely from the University of Otago, Wellington says the time for prevaricating about obesity is over with the release of latest child obesity figures by the Ministry of Health.
Before Skyfall: 46 years of violence in James Bond movies
Tuesday, 11 December 2012 3:25pm
Violent acts in James Bond films were more than twice as common in Quantum of Solace (2008) than in the original 1962 movie Dr No, University of Otago researchers have found.
Leading international speakers for Public Health Summer School
Monday, 10 December 2012 2:05pm
The largest and longest running Public Health Summer School in New Zealand and Australia will provide an exciting line-up of national and international speakers for three weeks next February.
Binge drinking in young people attracted to more than one gender
Monday, 12 November 2012 4:58pm
A report by the University of Otago, Wellington shows that many young people attracted to more than one gender tend to binge drink because they feel stigmatised and socially excluded.
Swine flu pandemic expensive for NZ
Friday, 9 November 2012 8:44am
A new study estimates the total cost to the New Zealand hospital sector of the 2009 ‘swine flu’ pandemic at around $31 million.
Silicone dressings reduce skin reactions following radiation for breast cancer
Thursday, 1 November 2012 11:31am
Skin reactions following radiation therapy for breast cancer have been the focus of a recent clinical trial conducted by Dr Patries Herst from the Department of Radiation Therapy, University of Otago, Wellington and a team of radiation therapists in public hospitals in Dunedin, Wellington and Palmerston North and Auckland Radiation Oncology.
Professor Brett Delahunt elected Fellow of the Royal Society of New Zealand
Wednesday, 31 October 2012 2:17pm
Professor Brett Delahunt, from the Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, has been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society of New Zealand at the recent Annual General Meeting for his exceptional distinction in research and the advancement of medical science.
Research undermines tobacco industry’s plain packaging claims
Wednesday, 10 October 2012 3:51pm
Two research studies led by University of Otago researchers have challenged tobacco companies’ claims about plain packaging. Both studies were conducted by the ASPIRE2025 research group, which includes Professors Janet Hoek and Phil Gendall working from Otago’s Department of Marketing, and Professor Richard Edwards from the University’s Department of Public Health (Wellington).
Otago study reveals persistent deprivation for NZ children
Friday, 21 September 2012 11:41am
A sizeable and “difficult to ignore” proportion of New Zealand children have experienced persistent low income and deprivation in recent years, according to a new University of Otago study using seven years of longitudinal survey data.
‘Loan sharks’ need tougher regulation and controls
Monday, 20 August 2012 3:25pm
Recent research from the University of Otago, Wellington shows that loan sharks charging interest rates of up to 400% per annum are exploiting Maori, Pacific and low income New Zealanders and need to be better regulated.
Tobacco retailer support for new display legislation
Friday, 20 July 2012 2:20pm
Tobacco retailers interviewed in the Wellington area mostly supported the forthcoming removal of point-of-sale tobacco product displays.
Nation's top tertiary teaching award won by Otago Pharmacy academic
Wednesday, 18 July 2012 12:23pm
University of Otago School of Pharmacy Senior Lecturer Dr Rhiannon Braund’s dedication to both her learners and profession has led to her being named the 2012 recipient of the Prime Minister’s Supreme Award for tertiary teaching excellence.
Otago researchers gain Neurological Foundation funding
Wednesday, 11 July 2012 10:01am
Several University of Otago researchers have received funding to support their studies through the latest Neurological Foundation grant round announced today.
University of Otago Teaching Excellence Awards Announced
Wednesday, 11 July 2012 8:00am
Three Otago academics have been recognised for their outstanding ability to teach in this year's University Teaching Excellence Awards.
Smoking on footpaths increases hazardous air pollutants
Monday, 9 July 2012 2:21pm
A study by the University of Otago, Wellington has found that smoking on city street footpaths increases the amount of dangerous fine particulates in city air.
Women more likely to defer health care for financial reasons
Wednesday, 4 July 2012 2:21pm
Women are more likely to put off going to their GP, buying prescriptions or going to the dentist for financial reasons than men according to a new University of Otago study.
