Tahiti, October 9, 2026 - Several local associations and health professionals gathered in the gardens of the Fare Ora in Mahaena on Friday morning. Residents of Hitia'a o te Ra could attend informational sessions on various health topics, including cardiovascular disease screening and the benefits of a local and varied diet, complete with recipes. The Fare Ora, opened in late April 2025, has already served 13,500 people. It offers convenient access to both health care and administrative services. After initial challenges, it is now staffed with two doctors and three nurses. This Friday marked the first major health promotion event held in the Fare Ora gardens, organized through a partnership between the Soroptimist Club of Tahiti-Papeete and the commune of Hitia'a o te Ra. Visitors could speak with volunteers from SOS Suicide or the Hei Ora association, which supports victims of nuclear tests. The Polynesian Citizens' Federation for the Fight against Drugs and Addiction (FCPLDT) was also present, raising awareness about the ice epidemic and providing information on care procedures. Cardiovascular diseases were a central focus of the event. "Many people do not know they are sick, so we encourage them to see their doctor. Lifestyle changes are very important: eat balanced meals, exercise, and if possible, quit smoking," said Sandrine, a nurse in cardiology, at the blood pressure and diabetes screening stand. This theme has been a priority for the Soroptimist Club for several years. "Especially the symptoms in women, which can seem more common," noted Naja Charreard, secretary of the philanthropic club. Participants received a list of symptoms to watch for, including chest pressure or breathing difficulties, but also persistent fatigue, digestive issues, or anxiety. "In Polynesia, the number of strokes is increasing rapidly, especially among young women as young as 30 years old," said a representative, adding that heart attacks are also a concern. The commune of Hitia'a o te Ra has taken this seriously, with several elected officials and staff participating in the event. "If we do not take care of our health, including our heart, everything goes wrong! We are concerned about our population and our children. Despite the rain, we are happy with the mobilization. Other projects are under consideration with the health commission, trying to involve the four associated communes," said Tiare Vahine, sixth deputy mayor, accompanied by Linda Iotua, an agent of the single counter of Tiarei, who has been involved in prevention for several years. An approach apparently appreciated by the residents. "It is not often organized here, so we came to take advantage of it," said Gelia, accompanied by her mother, aged 84 years. Resident of Tiarei, Danouchka, 36 years old, saw two advantages to this event: "There are many small things that can be implemented at each person's level. It also allowed me to discover the Fare Ora, where you have access to several services." Some stands offered advice combined with practical examples. For its first action, the young association Tifai taamu ia nati, represented by Jacqueline Pouira, brought local fruits and vegetables to taste with grated coconut. "This is not lacking in Papeno'o in Hitia'a! Eating local is good for health," she said. This was also the message conveyed by the Health Directorate through the voice of Adelaïde Tamaku. "Infused waters are alternatives to sugary drinks, which can be prepared by oneself or in family, ideally using what one has in their garden," explained the nurse in health promotion, who came to present two recipes, one based on frozen citrus slices, the other of guavas and mixed spices. To "add green to your plate," a work done in 2019 by the South Pacific Community (CPS) is highlighted to promote edible leaves in cooking. "It is economical and good for health," she points out, citing young leaves of false coffee and sweet potato.