Papua New Guinea: targeting research to things that matter

The Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research (PNGIMR) conducts research into the priority health problems of the people of PNG to improve treatment, control and prevention of disease. PNGIMR research programs encompass vector-borne diseases (particularly malaria), respiratory diseases, sexual health, disease surveillance, infectious diseases and operational (health systems) research. There can be no doubt that this capacity for high quality, evidence-based intervention has had a very positive impact on health in PNG. National malaria treatment policy, development of filariasis and malaria control programs, and the development of a pigbel vaccine are but a few of the areas in which the Institute’s research has been translated into action.