A team of Seventh-day Adventist health ambassadors from the New Britain New Ireland Mission recently conducted free health checks and lifestyle awareness sessions on Lihir Island, reaching more than 430 people over four days, from August 4–7, 2025.

Lihir Island, located off the northeastern coast of Papua New Guinea, is part of New Ireland Province and is known for its active gold mining operations and diverse communities. As lifestyle-related diseases become more prevalent in the region—largely due to shifts in diet and physical activity—the Adventist team launched this outreach to promote healthier living.

The initiative was part of the 10,000 Toes campaign, which is a South Pacific-wide movement that aims to reduce the rising tide of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases. The campaign focuses on community-based health education, early detection, and lifestyle intervention, especially in island nations where rates of diabetes are among the highest in the world.

The health outreach drew participants from all six wards of the island, including individuals from various religious backgrounds. Community members gathered at the Putput government aid post and Londolovit Beach, near the island’s main township, for screenings and health education.

The initiative was led by Lihir district 10,000 Toes coordinator Nerollyne Motenava and health coordinator Joan Laketan. Conrad Stanis, who serves as the 10,000 Toes provincial coordinator for New Ireland, also joined the team.

Health ambassadors provided screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar levels, height, weight, and Body Mass Index (BMI), along with lifestyle counseling focused on nutrition, exercise, and disease prevention.

“I am grateful for the Adventist Church and the 10,000 Toes health checks reaching the people of Lihir—and beyond,” said Martin Simol, deputy chairman of the Lihir Mining Landowners Association. He encouraged all residents to take part in future health screenings.

New Ireland Province health manager Debbian Willie praised the team’s dedication and thanked supporting partners, including Newmont Corporation, Nimamar Health Administration, Aspen Medical, and community leaders.

“I’m happy for the ambassadors. Even with the basic knowledge they have, they’ve stepped forward to serve,” she said. “We will continue to support and upskill them.”

The initiative made a noticeable impact on the island, with many community members expressing hope for more health programs in the future.

The original article was published on the South Pacific Division news site, Adventist Record. Join the ANN WhatsApp Channel for the latest Adventist news.