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<p>Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of death globally, and Pacific Island countries have among the world’s highest rates of obesity and diabetes. While social networks shape health behaviors, their relation to NCD risk and gender differences in the Pacific remains understudied. This cross-sectional study involved 190 adults (66 men, 124 women) from urban and peri-urban neighborhoods in Honiara, Solomon Islands. Participants completed egocentric social network interviews, structured questionnaires, and health assessments. Multiple regression analyses were stratified by sex, and interaction models tested gender differences. The results revealed that close family members were the most frequent support providers for important discussions and help-seeking among men and women, followed by relatives. Women were significantly more likely to discuss personal matters with spouses (34.7% vs. 19.7%, <i>p</i> = 0.044) and seek help from them (27.4% vs. 10.6%, <i>p</i> = 0.009). Among men, discussing health issues with relatives was associated with lower fasting blood glucose (β =  − 40.04, 95% CI − 76.46 to − 3.62, <i>p</i> = 0.031). Among women, discussing important matters (β = 25.99, <i>p</i> &lt; 0.001) and seeking help from non-family members (β = 20.59, <i>p</i> = 0.0048) were associated with higher body mass index (BMI). Social support’s health effects depend on its source and cultural context. Kin-based networks may protect men’s glucose regulation, whereas non-family ties may contribute to women’s higher BMI, possibly reflecting communal eating practices. These findings highlight the need for gender-sensitive, culturally informed public health strategies in the Pacific.</p>

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Social networks and non-communicable disease risk in the Solomon Islands: gendered patterns of support and health outcomes

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

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  • 发表日期：

    2026年2月20日

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  • Chihiro Tsuchiya-Theorin,
  • Frida Pitakaka,
  • Julia Daefoni,
  • Takuro Furusawa

摘要

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of death globally, and Pacific Island countries have among the world’s highest rates of obesity and diabetes. While social networks shape health behaviors, their relation to NCD risk and gender differences in the Pacific remains understudied. This cross-sectional study involved 190 adults (66 men, 124 women) from urban and peri-urban neighborhoods in Honiara, Solomon Islands. Participants completed egocentric social network interviews, structured questionnaires, and health assessments. Multiple regression analyses were stratified by sex, and interaction models tested gender differences. The results revealed that close family members were the most frequent support providers for important discussions and help-seeking among men and women, followed by relatives. Women were significantly more likely to discuss personal matters with spouses (34.7% vs. 19.7%, p = 0.044) and seek help from them (27.4% vs. 10.6%, p = 0.009). Among men, discussing health issues with relatives was associated with lower fasting blood glucose (β =  − 40.04, 95% CI − 76.46 to − 3.62, p = 0.031). Among women, discussing important matters (β = 25.99, p < 0.001) and seeking help from non-family members (β = 20.59, p = 0.0048) were associated with higher body mass index (BMI). Social support’s health effects depend on its source and cultural context. Kin-based networks may protect men’s glucose regulation, whereas non-family ties may contribute to women’s higher BMI, possibly reflecting communal eating practices. These findings highlight the need for gender-sensitive, culturally informed public health strategies in the Pacific.