The burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Barbados has become a public health crisis that will take a collaborative effort between Government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to tackle it.

This was the assertion of Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael, as he addressed the inaugural National Forum for NGOs on Non-communicable Diseases at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, Two Mile Hill, St. Michael, this morning. 

It was held under the theme “Building Blocks for a Healthier Barbados”.

Furthermore, Mr. Ishmael said that according to a Barbados Investment Case study, the direct costs of treating NCDs was substantial, representing a large portion of the national health budget.

He added the broader economic cost of diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer and obesity was even more profound.

The Minister also noted that the 2015 Health of the Nation Survey, revealed that unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco use, harmful alcohol use and obesity, were key risk factors to the NCD burden. Additionally, it found that over 65 per cent of adult Barbadians were obese, while 40 per cent were living with hypertension and 20 per cent with diabetes.

“Productivity losses resulting from illness, disability, and premature death, further exacerbate the financial strain on the economy. The Barbados Investment Case estimates that these indirect costs, driven by decreased workforce participation and premature mortality, contribute millions of dollars more to the national economic burden. Estimates indicate that Barbados spends approximately BBD $64 million annually on cardiovascular diseases and diabetes….,” the Minister stated.

He added: “Furthermore, the economy incurs a loss of BBD $145 million each year due to missed workdays, decreased productivity, reduced workforce participation, and the costs of replacing workers affected by these conditions.”

Mr. Ishmael noted that NGOs were pivotal in fostering positive changes in public awareness, health behaviours, health education and promotion, to direct patient support. He pointed out they also collectively helped to shape policies and mobilise resources for NCD management.

However, he noted that addressing the NCD crisis required more than the efforts of NGOs alone but necessitates a multi-sectoral approach that includes government, healthcare professionals, the private sector, and international partners.

The Minister of State cited the World Health Organization’s “Best Buys” initiative which outlines cost-effective interventions that can reduce the burden of NCD risk factors, as being invaluable in this effort. 

“Barbados has started integrating some of these strategies into our national health policies, but there is still much work to be done. By collaborating with NGOs and other stakeholders, we can build on these foundations and accelerate progress,” he explained. (PR)

Caption: Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael, speaking at the inaugural National Forum for NGOs on Non-communicable Diseases.

The Barbados Marine Spatial Plan (Barbados MSP), Newport and the National Conservation Commission (NCC) recently launched two new hydrate water stations.

These stations have been strategically placed at Brandon’s Beach and Browne’s Beach, which are both located in St. Michael and frequented by scores of Barbadians and visitors alike.

“We are delighted to partner with Newport and NCC to install these stations and provide free access to clean drinking water to help reduce plastic waste, contributing to both community health and the protection of Barbados’ precious marine ecosystems,” said Director of the Coastal Zone Management Unit, Dr. Leo Brewster, who is also overseeing the Barbados MSP process.

WHY WATER STATIONS:

The Hydrate Water Stations are part of a broader effort to integrate sustainable practices into the everyday lives of both locals and visitors. By providing free, easily accessible water stations, the Barbados MSP, Newport and NCC are encouraging beachgoers to stay hydrated while minimizing their reliance on single-use plastic bottles.

“Through thoughtful planning and innovative strategies, we at Newport have used the Hydrate Caribbean programme to promote environmental sustainability. The Barbados Marine Spatial Planning Unit brings invaluable expertise to this initiative. By placing water stations at key beach locations, we’re taking a crucial step towards reducing single-use plastics, minimizing waste, and promoting healthier, hydrated communities,” said Sales Coordinator at Newport, Sheridan Greaves.

The first two water stations sponsored by the Barbados MSP are now operational at two of Barbados’ most beloved coastal spots. The Barbados MSP team aims to expand this initiative to other key locations in the coming months to ensure that the benefits of clean, free drinking water are felt island-wide, and that the messages about responsible practices in the marine environment traverse the length and breadth of Barbados.

Dr. Brewster emphasised that the “water stations are a part of our 360-degree public outreach and visibility approach to ensure that we promote sustainable practices, raise awareness about MSP, educate the public, and encourage them to get involved in creating the marine spatial plan”.  He added: “Each station will have key messages with information on the Barbados MSP, a QR code to scan and obtain further information, as well as links to our digital platforms where the public is encouraged to engage with us. These stations quite seamlessly reflect our commitment to balancing development with environmental stewardship.” (PR/GIS)

CAPTION: Director of the Coastal Zone Management Unit, Dr. Leo Brewster, said that the water stations are a part of a 360-degree public outreach and visibility approach to ensure that sustainable practices are promoted and to heighten awareness on the Marine Spatial Plan

The Health and Wellness Committee of the Psychiatric Hospital invites members of the public to spin classes at the hospital’s Mind and Body Gym, located in Black Rock, St. Michael.

The classes are available to members of the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays, at 5:30 p.m. and on Saturdays, at 7:00 a.m. for a nominal fee.

Persons may call 536-3018 or 536-3113 with queries or to reserve a spot, or email themindandbodygymclub@gmail.com. 

A spin class, also known as a spinning class, involves joining a group of people, jumping on a stationary bike, and cycling indoors. Spinning is an excellent way for many people to exercise together at their own pace and intensity.