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Arti Pillay is a Research Fellow at the Research Centre for the Prevention of Obesity and Non-Communicable Diseases (C-POND) at Fiji National University.
The Centre, in collaboration with the George Institute of Global Health and Deakin University, was awarded a National Health and Medical Research Council/GACD grant to carry out a study on the “Cost Effectiveness of Salt Reduction Interventions in Pacific Island Countries,” specifically in Fiji and Samoa. Arti is mainly involved in Fiji, working closely with the Ministry of Health.
What do you hope to achieve through your research?
Our research team is evaluating the effectiveness of interventions to reduce salt in real world settings. Through national implementation programmes, we are aiming to achieve an overall reduction in sodium consumption across Fiji and Samoa and to increase the accessibility of reduced sodium products.
Tell us a little more about the project you are working on
The research project completed Phase ! (Baseline Assessment) in 2013, with the collection of baseline data on sodium intake, along with a Food Frequency, and Knowledge, Attitude and Behaviour Questionnaire, and a supermarket survey and food analysis. Following this, a multi sectoral intervention period, targeting consumers and food businesses was rolled out. The project is currently in Phase 3 (Follow-up Monitoring) to measure the impact of the intervention.
How has being part of GACD helped your research?
GACD provided an opportunity for funding for Pacific Island Countries like Fiji and Samoa to collect national salt intake data, carry out a national level multi-sectoral intervention and to measure its impact. GACD has also provided a platform to network with experts and highly experienced researchers. Being able to share opportunities and challenges with other GACD project teams, through the newsletters, regular teleconferences and participation in the annual meetings has helped us to realise that we are not unique in our challenges, and it has offered solutions and inspired us to move forward in overcoming barriers.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
Working with a dynamic and passionate team, locally and globally. Also knowing that the entire team is working towards achieving a positive health outcome by reducing sodium intake in the Pacific Islands.
Apart from the project, what are your other passions in life?
A peaceful walk along the sea wall, a steaming cup of coffee and a great novel.
Can you name someone who has inspired you in your life and work?
My parents – who despite having no formal education, believed in and valued education and supported with through mine despite all difficulties. Steve Jobs – who inspires me to give great presentations. “There is an opportunity in every challenge” is something I was once told, and this has become my motto in work and life.