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.
Delivering a message from the world to the world
Tuesday, 7 April 2020 9:31am
Concerned about the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic University of Otago medical school alumnus Dr Zeid Abussuud decided to spread the word on staying safe. With a little help from his friends, many of them also graduates of Otago, Dr Abussuud has made a moving YouTube video, ‘Do it for the whole world: Stay at home’.
Self-isolating for coronavirus is impossible for tens of thousands of New Zealanders – unless we help them fast
Friday, 27 March 2020 10:15am
In less than 48 hours, all people in New Zealand will have to self-isolate, unless they are essential service workers. This is our best chance to stop the spread of COVID-19.
'Overjoyed': a leading health expert on New Zealand's coronavirus shutdown, and the challenging weeks ahead
Tuesday, 24 March 2020 4:35pm
Professor Michael Baker on New Zealand’s coronavirus shutdown, and the challenging weeks ahead
NZ must urgently build contact tracing for COVID-19 to make nationwide lockdown worthwhile, infectious diseases expert says
Tuesday, 24 March 2020 2:58pm
New Zealand must urgently build its capacity for COVID-19 case identification and contact tracing capacity, as the country goes into ‘lockdown’, Dr Ayesha Verrall, an infectious diseases doctor and epidemiologist at the University of Otago, Wellington, says.
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.
Misinformation on vaccines readily available online, study finds
Wednesday, 11 March 2020 11:44am
Parents researching childhood vaccinations online are likely to encounter significant levels of negative information, researchers at the University of Otago, Wellington, have found.
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.
Fulbright scholars excited by opportunities
Thursday, 13 February 2020 9:46pm
Two University of Otago staff have received 2020 Scholar Awards from Fulbright New Zealand, allowing them to travel to the United States to pursue research and form international connections.
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.
Best practice treatments for chronic pain overlooked as media focus on opioids and medicinal cannabis
Friday, 17 January 2020 10:07am
Media reports on chronic pain are focusing on treatments involving opioids and cannabis at the expense of best practice non-drug treatments, researchers have found.
Call for volunteers as development of diabetes supplement progresses
Monday, 13 January 2020 1:12pm
Development of an innovative dietary supplement to combat diabetes with a natural extract derived from the dahlia plant has reached a second round of human trials, with volunteers required in the Wellington region.
He Kete Kōrero – Summer 2019
Wednesday, 18 December 2019 9:08am
Welcome to the Summer 2019–2020 edition of He Kete Kōrero, with recent highlights from the Wellington campus.
New Wellington Dean passionate about research, teaching and capital connection
Tuesday, 17 December 2019 9:41am
Associate Professor William Levack from the Department of Medicine has been appointed as Dean and Head of the Wellington Campus.
Remove profit motive from tobacco to deal with mass addiction, researchers urge
Tuesday, 17 December 2019 11:12am
Governments worldwide need to create non-profit supply systems for tobacco and nicotine products because of their potential to cause significant and avoidable harm, researchers from the University of Otago say.
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.
30 new Professors for the University of Otago
Tuesday, 10 December 2019 4:51pm
Thirty University of Otago academics have been promoted to the position of professor this year.
Sex, drugs, smokes and booze the focus for PhD thesis
Monday, 9 December 2019 12:17pm
She didn’t quite manage to get ‘sex and drugs and rock and roll’ into the title of her PhD thesis, but researcher Jude Ball from the University of Otago, Wellington, came close, using the Ian Dury lyrics to introduce her first chapter.
Nineteen new Associate Professors for Health Sciences
Friday, 6 December 2019 2:03pm
A swathe of the University of Otago Division of Health Science’s finest staff have been promoted to Associate Professor.
Wellington Dean prepares to sign off from ‘best job in the world’
Tuesday, 3 December 2019 10:04pm
After almost nine years at the helm as Dean and Head of Campus at the University of Otago, Wellington, psychiatrist and researcher Professor Sunny Collings leaves the role at the end of this year.
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.
Real world focus for postgrad primary health care curriculum
Tuesday, 26 November 2019 11:04am
The convenor of refreshed postgraduate qualifications in primary health care at the University of Otago, Wellington, has brought years of experience working as a field medic for Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) in such global hotspots as Afghanistan and Sierra Leone – as well as on-the-ground work in rural and urban New Zealand - to the task.
Spirituality and Mental Health Symposium
Thursday, 21 November 2019 3:51pm
A symposium being held at the University of Otago, Wellington on Monday 25 November offers a chance to tackle some of life’s most fundamental questions, including the nature of reality and the meaning of life.
Call for a new funded palliative care model as more Kiwis admitted to rest homes to die
Thursday, 14 November 2019 2:49pm
Increasing pressure on both public hospitals and hospices is resulting in more patients being “admitted-to-die” into aged residential care facilities (rest homes), which are not typically set up to provide specialist palliative care services.
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.
$3.8 million to Otago researchers in Career Development Awards
Thursday, 31 October 2019 10:42am
The Health Research Council has awarded 23 University of Otago researchers $3.8 million in Career Development Awards.
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 Otago Medical School Dean brings international expertise
Tuesday, 8 October 2019 2:29pm
A prominent neuroradiologist and nuclear medicine physician with a wealth of international experience has been named the new Dean of the University of Otago medical school.
Translational Research Grant applications sought
Friday, 4 October 2019 2:15pm
All academic staff in the Division of Health Sciences are eligible to apply for the Translational Research Grant.
Cannabidiol gel reduces seizures in children with severe epilepsy, Australasian trial shows
Wednesday, 2 October 2019 10:56am
A cannabidiol gel has been shown to reduce epileptic seizures in children in a clinical trial conducted in New Zealand and Australia.
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).
From polio to post-polio
Wednesday, 25 September 2019 10:21pm
When Anne Fitzpatrick, an assistant research fellow at the University of Otago, Wellington, got the chance to give a personal account of surviving polio to the readers of the New Zealand Medical Journal’s online Digest, she leapt at the opportunity to tell her story.
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.
He Kete Kōrero – Spring 2019
Monday, 9 September 2019 4:05pm
The Spring 2019 edition of the University of Otago, Wellington newsletter
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.
No age limit on research for 74-year-old PhD Graduate
Thursday, 22 August 2019 10:34pm
It was quite a weekend for Dr John White who celebrated his 74th birthday last Friday and then donned cap and gown to receive his PhD at the Dunedin Town Hall on Saturday.
Fellowship fund flies PhD students to the United States
Thursday, 22 August 2019 11:04pm
Three PhD students will be winging their way to the United States next year to study and collaborate, thanks to a University of Otago fellowship.
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.
Pacific Health Ministers welcome major report on cancer in region
Monday, 19 August 2019 10:21pm
A major research series on cancer control in small island nations led by Professor Diana Sarfati from the University of Otago, Wellington, has been welcomed at the Pacific Health Ministers Meeting in Tahiti.
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.
Healthier homes could cut hospital stays for young children, researchers find
Thursday, 15 August 2019 2:58pm
Almost 20 per cent of hospital admissions of young children with acute respiratory infections could be prevented if their houses were free from damp and mould, researchers have found.
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.
Milestone celebration as Pacific Office opens at Wellington campus
Monday, 12 August 2019 10:43pm
A formal ceremonial and multicultural celebration was held at the University of Otago, Wellington late last month, to mark the official opening of the school’s first Pacific Office.
2019 OUSA Supervisor of the Year named
Friday, 9 August 2019 7:04pm
It was only a “few” years ago Dr Susan Wardell was watching her supervisor be awarded the OUSA Supervisor of the Year. Now it has come full circle, with Dr Wardell being given the top nod at the awards.
Treatable cancers killing thousands in Pacific
Tuesday, 6 August 2019 10:53am
People living in the Pacific Islands are dying regularly from highly treatable cancers because of a lack of cancer care services around the region, researchers say.
Old vaccine brings new surprises
Friday, 19 July 2019 9:23am
New research about an old vaccine – one that has been in use for nearly 100 years – has not only shown how effective it is but also suggests it improves our immune response to a wider range of bacteria than originally intended.
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.
HRC Grants of almost $35 million to Division of Health Sciences researchers
Thursday, 27 June 2019 9:40am
Beta blockers, smoking cessation, stress suppression in motherhood and synthetic cannabinoid signalling are just a few of the areas of University of Otago Division of Health Sciences research to receive a total of almost $35 million in funding this year from the Health Research Council.
HRC grants $40m to Otago research tackling issues from climate change to heart failure
Wednesday, 26 June 2019 4:06pm
Climate change and its impact on people’s health and using DNA to help predict who may suffer heart failure are just two of many University of Otago-led research projects being funded this year by the Health Research Council to the tune of more than $40 million.
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.
Hard hitters share weight management knowledge
Wednesday, 19 June 2019 10:13am
A postgraduate distance education paper in Obesity Prevention and Management run by the University of Otago, Wellington has enlisted help from some hard hitters in a quest to improve the management of patients in the community.
High quality websites and apps could help those in chronic pain to manage symptoms, researcher says
Tuesday, 18 June 2019 1:06pm
Smartphone apps and pain management websites could fill a significant gap in helping to support the one in five New Zealanders living with chronic or persistent pain, a pain researcher from the University of Otago, Wellington says.
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.
Study points to need for care in inappropriate use of stigmatising terms in weight management
Friday, 7 June 2019 10:21am
A large quantitative research study has found using the terms ‘weight’ or ‘high BMI (body mass index)’ to describe excess fatness was rated as less stigmatising and less blaming than commonly used medical terms, such as ‘fat’ or ‘obese’.
Opinion: Why are taxpayers subsidising licensed firearms owners?
Wednesday, 22 May 2019 11:33am
OPINION: Online comment from some local gun lobbyists after the Christchurch shooting bypassed sympathy and jumped straight to worries about government "taking our guns away". Despite such attitudes, firearm owners are happy for the rest of us to subsidise them through our taxes.
Cat, horse, cow allergens found in primary school classrooms
Friday, 17 May 2019 9:23am
Cats and farm animals are making their presence felt in classrooms, with allergens rubbing off children’s clothes and on to classroom carpets, researchers from the University of Otago, Wellington have found.
Therapist ‘stoked’ rehabilitation research secures HRC funding
Thursday, 16 May 2019 11:05pm
Occupational therapist Dr Fiona Graham is excited the Health Research Council (HRC) is funding a study she is leading with the aim of improving the quality of life for children with disabilities.
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.
Making the homeless count
Thursday, 9 May 2019 12:02pm
When Dr Kate Amore began researching homelessness for her PhD at the University of Otago, Wellington, the country was in denial that the issue was even a problem, she says.
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.
Urgent action needed to end our love affair with cars, report finds
Monday, 29 April 2019 3:50pm
The authors of a University of Otago report on active transport say urgent steps must be taken to encourage New Zealanders to walk, cycle or take public transport, with our use of cars harming both our health and our environment.
He Kete Kōrero – Autumn 2019
Tuesday, 23 April 2019 9:56am
The Autumn 2019 edition of the University of Otago, Wellington newsletter
Sparking a love for science in kura kaupapa Māori students
Tuesday, 16 April 2019 11:06am
From dissecting a sheep’s heart and lungs to examining the microbial properties of manuka honey, a ground breaking initiative at the University of Otago, Wellington, has a no holds barred attitude to hosting students from kura kaupapa Māori (Māori language immersion schools).
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.
Blending family therapy with creativity
Wednesday, 10 April 2019 12:31pm
Writing a children’s picture book for the families of premature babies has been a project close to the heart for author Julie Burgess-Manning, a lecturer in the Department of Psychological Medicine at the University of Otago, Wellington.
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.
Plaudits for tobacco control group ASPIRE 2025
Friday, 5 April 2019 10:48pm
University of Otago research group ASPIRE 2025 has won praise from the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand for its exemplary efforts and achievements in the field of smoking cessation and tobacco control.
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.
Message from the Vice-Chancellor
Friday, 15 March 2019 2:15pm
The University of Otago community stands shoulder to shoulder with the Muslim community. Following the tragic events in Christchurch last Friday, several events are being held on the Dunedin campus on Thursday, 21 March.
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.
Are we closing the health gap?
Thursday, 21 February 2019 10:58am
Listen to Professor Louise Signal, Director of the Health Promotion and Policy Research Unit, participate in a radio panel interview considering progress in addressing health inequities.
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.
Cancer Society calls for an end to DHB-led cancer care
Thursday, 31 January 2019 9:15am
New Zealand is at a major crossroads in cancer care and the Cancer Society are calling on government to back a nationally-led, coordinated approach to cancer.
‘Choosing Wisely’ reduces unnecessary tests and antibiotic use, study finds
Tuesday, 22 January 2019 1:09pm
A Hutt Valley District Health Board campaign to cut the number of urine tests being carried out on hospital patients not only significantly reduced the number of unnecessary tests being ordered but also lowered the level of antibiotic prescribing, a study published in the New Zealand Medical Journal has found.
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.
He Kete Kōrero – Summer 2018
Tuesday, 18 December 2018 2:00pm
The Summer 2018 edition of the University of Otago, Wellington newsletter
Probiotic gives long-standing protection against childhood eczema, study finds
Monday, 17 December 2018 1:05pm
Giving a probiotic supplement to pregnant mothers and their infants significantly reduces the chances of a child developing eczema for the first 11 years of their life, researchers have 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.
University of Otago announces academic promotions
Wednesday, 12 December 2018 2:45pm
Seventeen University of Otago academics have been promoted to the position of professor this year.
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.
Otago academic voted president-elect of College of GPs
Thursday, 29 November 2018 10:15am
Dr Samantha Murton, a senior lecturer at the University’s Wellington campus, has been voted president-elect of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGPs).
Otago health researchers share more than $3.5m in Career Development Awards
Tuesday, 20 November 2018 9:19am
A University of Otago Christchurch engineer is developing a ‘lego’ system to 3D-bioprint bone; a solution that could one day replace the billions-of-dollars-worth of ceramic and titanium implants required by New Zealand patients annually.
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.
Professor Tony Blakely wins 2018 Chaffer Medal
Thursday, 1 November 2018 12:32pm
One of the country’s leading epidemiologists and public health researchers has been awarded this year’s Chaffer Medal for distinguished performance in health research.
Otago’s NEXT magazine Woman of the Year
Wednesday, 31 October 2018 2:33pm
Professor Philippa Howden-Chapman of the Department of Public Health at the University of Otago, Wellington, stepped into a world of unaccustomed glitz and glamour when she was judged NEXT magazine’s 2018 Woman of the Year at the Cordis Hotel in Auckland earlier this month.
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.
Unprecedented success for Otago at the NZ Research Honours Awards
Thursday, 18 October 2018 10:22pm
The University has had unprecedented success at the New Zealand Research Honours Awards this year, taking home one quarter of the awards on offer.
Six Otago researchers recognised in NZ research honours
Thursday, 18 October 2018 9:12am
University of Otago Research Fellow Helen Taylor’s science communication around conservation genetics and threatened species has earned her recognition at this year’s New Zealand Research Honours.
Otago research aims to explain high testicular cancer rates in Māori
Friday, 12 October 2018 4:56pm
A new University of Otago study is aiming to tackle why Māori men have abnormally higher rates of testicular cancer compared to their non-Māori counterparts.
Researchers call for end to fat stigma
Thursday, 11 October 2018 1:44pm
Researchers are using World Obesity Day today to call for an end to the stigma which fat people experience in their daily lives.
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.
Otago scientists secure almost $1.6 million for heart research
Monday, 17 September 2018 12:20pm
Otago scientists secure almost $1.6 million for heart research
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 scientist urges NZ to lead the way in eliminating top infectious disease killer
Wednesday, 29 August 2018 9:45am
A University of Otago doctor and scientist is calling on New Zealand to be the first country in the world to eliminate tuberculosis (TB), the top infectious disease killer in the world.
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.
Honing in on the key ingredients for successful self-management of chronic pain
Friday, 24 August 2018 2:19pm
The outlook for the one in five New Zealanders with persistent or chronic pain has the potential to be more positive according to an extensive study review by researchers from the School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago, Wellington (UOW) and Pain Management Service, Capital Coast District Health Board.
Researching the impact of drops in the oxygen levels of preterm babies
Monday, 13 August 2018 11:43am
Friends of international PhD student, Dr Conway Niu, joke that his current research project – monitoring the oxygen levels of preterm babies – is taking him back to the comfort zone of his early days.
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.
3MT finals showcase up-and-coming talent
Wednesday, 8 August 2018 10:24am
A PhD candidate who is investigating the emotional responses of clinicians who deal with suicidal patients has won the PhD category of Otago’s 2018 Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition.
Opinion: Healthy environment the foundation of suicide prevention
Friday, 3 August 2018 12:47pm
Dr John Adams and Professor Sunny Collings take a look at student mental health and suicide prevention.
Otago researcher secures funding for therapy to help prevent disorders in preterm babies
Wednesday, 1 August 2018 10:09am
A University of Otago researcher has received funding from the Neurological Foundation of New Zealand to investigate a new therapy which could potentially prevent disorders developing in children born prematurely.
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.
He Kete Kōrero – Winter 2018
Thursday, 26 July 2018 10:43am
The Winter 2018 edition of the University of Otago, Wellington newsletter
Opinion: Smokefree 2025 - An opportunity for Government
Wednesday, 18 July 2018 9:28pm
Bold Government action is needed to achieve the Smokefree Aotearoa 2025 goal writes a group of staff from the Wellington campus and the Cancer Society.
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.
Multimorbidity impacts on employment and financial wellbeing, Otago report shows
Monday, 25 June 2018 11:56am
Multimorbidity has a substantial impact on sufferers who report not only poorer health but also adverse impacts on their employment and financial wellbeing compared to the general population, new University of Otago research reveals.
Preparing for increased stroke volumes in New Zealand
Friday, 22 June 2018 10:49am
Although the incidence of stroke and mortality are declining due to better management strategies, stroke volumes are going up in New Zealand due to a growing and ageing population.
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.
Obesity a tough topic for GPs, Otago research reveals
Friday, 18 May 2018 9:11am
New University of Otago research highlights the difficulties for GPs of discussing obesity with patients who are overweight and signals the need for resources to support them and other community health providers in this role.
New ideas for detecting cancer get go-ahead from HRC
Thursday, 17 May 2018 4:47pm
A University of Otago researcher focused on the earlier detection of cancer has just secured her first significant grant from the Health Research Council, valued at $249,984, for her novel proposal for diagnosing bowel cancer.
HRC funding enables Otago researcher to investigate early detection test for bowel cancer
Thursday, 17 May 2018 7:59am
A researcher aiming to develop an early-detection genetic-based test for bowel cancer is one of several University of Otago researchers who have been awarded almost $1.5 million in Health Research Council funding.
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.
Gaps in patient care pathway may perpetuate high rates of sexually transmitted infections
Wednesday, 9 May 2018 10:21am
There are gaps between best practice and documented management of patients diagnosed with sexually transmitted infections in primary care, which may contribute to high rates of infection, new University of Otago research shows.
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.
Genetic research reveals new insights into severe childhood epilepsy
Tuesday, 1 May 2018 4:16pm
In a new study on children with severe forms of epilepsy, researchers have found the genetic copying mistake that causes the severe epilepsy in children can be found in their parents who do not have epilepsy.
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.
He Kete Kōrero – Autumn 2018
Tuesday, 17 April 2018 11:05am
The Autumn 2018 edition of the University of Otago, Wellington newsletter
A picture is worth a thousand medical explanations
Monday, 16 April 2018 2:22pm
A Wellington campus Senior Lecturer and GP is beginning her PhD examining whether a health practitioner drawing a picture to help describe a medical situation impacts on a patient’s health outcome.
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.
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.
Yoghurt may reduce eczema and allergy in infancy
Wednesday, 28 March 2018 1:54pm
Yoghurt given to infants in the first year of life may protect them from developing eczema and allergy, researchers from the University of Otago, Wellington, and the University of Auckland have found.
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.
Summer Studentship programme 2017/2018
Monday, 26 March 2018 2:10pm
University of Otago, Wellington hosts the Summer Studentship Programme each year. The Department of Medicine has had a number of students this summer participating in 10 week research projects.
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.
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.
New Chair for research foundation’s advisory committee
Wednesday, 7 March 2018 10:18am
Dr Rebecca Grainger from the Department of Medicine at the University of Otago, Wellington has been appointed Chair of the Research for Life’s Research Advisory Committee.
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.
Third vaccine dose needed to protect young New Zealanders from mumps outbreak
Tuesday, 13 February 2018 4:35pm
Urgent and proactive action is needed to protect young people from the current mumps outbreak in New Zealand, says Dr Ayesha Verrall, an infectious diseases physician and researcher at the University of Otago, Wellington.
Award-winning Biomedical Scientist appointed to Associate Dean (Pacific) at University of Otago Wellington
Friday, 9 February 2018 3:06pm
Dr Dianne Sika-Paotonu has been appointed to the role of Associate Dean (Pacific) at the University of Otago, Wellington (UOW). Dr Sika-Paotonu is the first Tongan, Pacific biomedical scientist to be appointed to this role within the Division of Health Sciences at Otago.
New Associate Dean (Pacific) at the Wellington campus
Thursday, 8 February 2018 2:47pm
Dr Dianne Sika-Paotonu has been appointed to the role of Associate Dean (Pacific) at the University’s Wellington campus.
First human trial of potentially game-changing diabetes treatment set to commence
Wednesday, 7 February 2018 2:17pm
University of Otago researchers are ready to take a significant step in the development of a new natural product that could potentially prevent diabetes.
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).
Talking about diabetes – improving health, one sentence at a time
Wednesday, 17 January 2018 9:53am
Primary care physicians can improve their communication to newly-diagnosed diabetes patients by offering more information specific to the patient’s experience, new research from Otago, Auckland and Victoria universities shows.
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.
Revelations on International Pathology Day at the Wellington campus
Tuesday, 19 December 2017 3:31pm
Wellington campus systems engineer Ricardo Batista, took time out from investigating the innards of computers to find out more about what made him tick from colleagues in that campus’ Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine on International Pathology Day.
University of Otago announces academic promotions
Friday, 15 December 2017 12:25pm
The University of Otago will this year promote 23 academics to the position of Professor across its Dunedin, Christchurch, and Wellington campuses.
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.
Students scoop awards in Wellington ceremony
Monday, 11 December 2017 2:47pm
Top-ranking medical and radiation therapy students enjoyed their own version of the red carpet at the University’s Wellington campus 2017 Awards Ceremony at the Roxy Theatre last month.
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.
He Kete Kōrero – Spring 2017
Tuesday, 7 November 2017 1:30pm
The Spring 2017 edition of the University of Otago, Wellington newsletter
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.
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.
Otago health researchers gain career development awards
Tuesday, 31 October 2017 11:53am
Four up–and–coming University of Otago researchers have each been awarded around $500,000 from the Health Research Council (HRC) to pursue world-class projects aimed at improving New Zealander’s health and wellbeing and contributing to international progress in these areas.
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 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.
Improving assessment of acute abdominal pain
Friday, 6 October 2017 3:08pm
Surgical admissions for people with abdominal pain to Wellington Hospital’s department of general surgery have nearly doubled over the past decade, a University of Otago, Wellington (UOW) study has found.
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 study shows General Practices at health training capacity
Friday, 22 September 2017 10:17am
A comprehensive survey in the lower North Island and South Island has revealed that general practices, although crucial for teaching our future health professionals, are at training capacity.
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.
New medical device for brain monitoring at the bedside
Monday, 18 September 2017 10:26am
A University of Otago, Wellington (UOW) team has been awarded an MBIE Endeavour grant this week to develop a non-invasive and cost-effective device to diagnose and treat stroke and other brain injuries.
Professor Tony Dowell interviewed for RNZ Documentary on Mental Health
Wednesday, 13 September 2017 2:22pm
Professor Tony Dowell from the Department of Primary Health Care & General Practice was recently interviewed as part of the RNZ Insight Programme, entitled "NZ’s Mental Health at Breaking Point?"
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 mould in bedrooms causes asthma in young children
Thursday, 7 September 2017 11:02am
Researchers at the University of Otago, Wellington (UOW) have shown that leaking and mouldy homes may lead to the development of a first attack of asthma in young children living in them.
Helping healthcare practitioners to work with language interpreters
Monday, 28 August 2017 11:44am
A team of researchers at the University of Otago, Wellington has just launched a unique on-line eLearning module to provide realistic and practical guidance for clinicians working with spoken language interpreters in primary health care.
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.
'Big data' study shows high impact of childhood respiratory illnesses on primary care practices
Friday, 11 August 2017 2:48pm
A study using ‘big data’ has found that childhood respiratory illnesses, especially during the first two years of life, have a big impact on New Zealand primary care general practice (GP) workloads.
Obstetric providers need greater support for new prenatal screening test
Friday, 4 August 2017 2:47pm
A new study shows most New Zealand obstetric providers need more support when providing a revolutionary genetic prenatal screening test because of its complexity and because it is not publicly funded.
