WHO Samoa, American Samoa, Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau

15/11/2025

Today is World Prematurity Day!

Complications related to preterm births are the leading cause of death among children under 5 years and a major cause of childhood disability and poor health.

Babies or too small require extra care to survive and thrive, with simple, proven interventions such as:
✅ Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth
✅ Provision of breast milk
✅ Prevention and treatment of infections and breathing difficulties

Every child deserves a fair chance at life, starting from their very first moments. 🤱🏽

13/11/2025

It’s World Diabetes Day.

Diabetes can affect people at every stage of life, from childhood to older age.

Preventing and effectively managing diabetes requires supportive environments, integrated care, and policies that promote health and dignity. When families, communities, and health systems work together, we can make a real difference.

08/11/2025

Alcohol leaves marks you can’t always see — on health, families, and futures. Watch how one drink ripples into many harms.

06/11/2025

02/11/2025

Measles should not be taken lightly. It is a highly contagious and serious airborne disease caused by a virus that can lead to severe complications and death.

Protect your children. Two doses of the measles vaccine are the best defence.

29/10/2025

Women know their bodies best.

That’s why regular breast self-checks matter, especially once you reach 40.

Most breast cancer cases occur in women with no known risk factors other than age and being female. But early detection and diagnosis save lives.

Look out for changes like lumps, ni**le discharge, pain, or skin changes. If something feels off, seek medical advice early.

26/10/2025

On 25 October 2025, Pacific health leaders gathered at Yanuca Island, Fiji to celebrate 30 years of Healthy Islands and reaffirm commitment towards . Watch as Cook Islands' Minister of Health Honourable Vainetutai Rose Toki Brown shares her insights about the Healthy Islands vision alongside other health leaders in the Pacific.

23/10/2025

Happy United Nations (UN) Day! 🇺🇳

Today, 24 October, we are celebrating UN Day in Samoa, alongside our UN in Samoa family. As we mark , we reaffirm WHO and the broader UN’s ongoing support for the people of Samoa – working together towards a healthier, more resilient future for all.

WHO was happy to collaborate with our sister UN agencies, UNICEF, UNESCO, and UNFPA to showcase our shared commitment to health, education, protection, and empowerment. Guided by the UN 2030 vision for the Pacific – People Pillar.

19/10/2025

Join our team!

We’re looking for an Executive Associate (G6) for our WHO Samoa office based in Apia to support our work towards . This position is open for local recruitment for candidates with a minimum of eight years of relevant work experience in general office support or administrative functions.

For more information or if you’re interested in applying, visit: https://careers.who.int/careersection/ex/jobdetail.ftl?job=2503759&tz=GMT%2B13%3A00&tzname=Pacific%2FApia

17/10/2025

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Samoa. Unfortunately, many women are diagnosed late, but early detection can save lives.

We recently spoke with Dr Mayday Fanueli, surgical registrar at Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital, to highlight 5 things every woman in Samoa should know about breast cancer, including the current situation, available treatments, and the importance of self-checks.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed every October to raise awareness and knowledge about breast cancer. Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and form tumours. If left untreated, these cells can spread to other parts of the body and become life-th...

15/10/2025

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Samoa 🇼🇸 and it can be deadly if found too late.

Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal breast cells grow out of control and form tumours. If left untreated, these cells can spread to other parts of the body and become fatal.

But there is hope! Learning and spreading awareness about breast cancer is one of the most important steps you can take. And if you’re a woman 40 years old and above, here’s what you can do:
✅ Perform monthly self-breast exams
✅ See a doctor if you notice any changes

Remember: early detection saves lives!

13/10/2025

Worried your child might be depressed?

Growing up comes with challenges and some children may struggle to cope. This is common. If you notice persistent changes in mood, behaviour or energy, talk to your child or seek professional advice if needed.