National Nutrition and Physical Activity Surveillance in Papua New Guinea: data showing comparison with three Melanesian countries.

Abstract

This data article summarizes key health-related indicators collected through national surveys conducted in four Melanesian countries: Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Fiji. The dataset includes variables on nutrition, physical activity, anthropometric measurements, and the frequency of survey implementation. The data were compiled from publicly accessible sources, including national statistics offices, the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Bank, Asia Pacific Report, and UNESCO. The dataset for each country details the survey items, frequency of implementation, population coverage (by age and gender), data availability status, and the most recently recorded values. In addition, indicators related to physical activity and vegetable consumption were extracted from the WHO STEPwise approach to non-communicable disease (NCD) surveillance, enabling cross-country comparisons based on standardized methodologies. This dataset supports future cross-national analyses and may be valuable for public health planning, health system monitoring, and program evaluation. It offers a foundation for examining regional health patterns, particularly in relation to nutrition and NCD surveillance, in the Pacific region. The dataset is available in Mendeley Data, with detailed supplementary tables provided to encourage reuse and transparency.