In developed countries, deaths from infectious diseases have decreased and those from chronic diseases have increased with modernization. In many developing countries which are undergoing rapid modernization, these changes have been accelerated, with marked variation from population to population. A typical pattern is observed in the risks of chronic diseases, like cardiovascular disorders and diabetic mellitus, which are closely associated with activity pattern and food intake. This paper reviews the relationship between modernization and health conditions in South Pacific countries, Papua New Guinea in particular, and discusses the significance of health and diseases in achieving ongoing sustainable development.