Health

Minister Abrahams Issues An EWS Alert For Two NPSs

Minister of Home Affairs and Information Wilfred Abrahams has issued an Early Warning System (EWS) alert for two New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) in Barbados.

He made the announcement regarding the alert for the two NPS MDMB-4en-PINACA and 4F-MDMB-BUTICA during a press briefing held at the Eastern Caribbean Camp, Ruby, St. Philip.

The two NPS were confirmed following testing and analysis at the Forensic Sciences Centre (FSC) and the findings were reported by the Director of the FSC, Cheryl Corbin, who identified the two NPS as Synthetic Cannabinoids (SCs).

“We’re taking this very, very, very seriously. The discovery of these synthetic cannabinoids of this type in Barbados, though somewhat not surprising is a cause for serious concern by us all. This concern is buttressed by information that having been first identified in one country in May 2020, three months later in August, that country recorded 11 deaths.

“This speaks to not only the toxicity but the speed with which this drug impacts individuals. To have a situation such as this developed here places an additional burden on an already challenged public health system, struggling to recover from the impacts of COVID-19 as well as the health issues which have arisen as a result of natural disasters locally,” Minister Abrahams stressed.

Both Minister Abrahams and Director Corbin underscored there is a real danger to persons using the two NPS, as there has been no extensive scientific research about the use of the two combined SCs.

The Minister stated: “These synthetic cannabinoids have no accepted medical use in treatment. In fact, these products are usually labelled not for human consumption. In addition, there is a very real danger to persons using these substances, as this presents further challenges for the appropriate medical intervention. The symptoms resulting from use can not only lead to serious health problems but can possibly bring individuals into contact with the law; as some of the symptoms include increased violence and predictability of behaviour.”

He noted that with the presence of NPS on the island and their possible fatal effects, it is important more than ever before, that the government enhances a coordinated response to the issue of drug abuse in Barbados.

To this end, Minister Abrahams said he had discussions yesterday with the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD) and has also instructed the National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA) to review and update the Barbados national anti-drug plan to reflect a proactive approach to drug abuse.

He noted that the early warning system to detect new psychoactive substances is “already bearing fruit”, and gave the commitment that he will give his continued support to efforts to strengthen mechanisms in order to ensure the continued stability of the island’s public health and security institutions.

“I want to thank the members of the public for the diligence exercised in this disregard. I encourage persons to report instances like these either to the NCSA or to the Barbados Police Service (BPS) so that in the very least, we are aware of and can issue a public alert to everyone regarding the need to be cautious and vigilant,” Minister Abrahams said. (PR/GIS)

Health

Team RUBIS gets set to Walk for the Cure in 2024

RUBIS will Walk for the Cure in 2024, supporting the Company’s silver sponsorship of the annual fundraiser, which is organised by the Barbados Cancer Society’s Breast Screening Programme in partnership with CIBC Caribbean.

The event is scheduled for Sunday, October 6^th, 2024, and Team RUBIS will be out in full force as 103 staff members, their families, and friends join the effort to raise awareness about breast cancer. The event also generates essential funds for purchasing equipment and other critical resources needed by the Breast Screening Programme.

Mellissa Broomes, Brand Marketing Specialist, underscored RUBIS’ commitment to the cause, stating: “We are proud to support the Walk for the Cure, recognising the significance of this cause and its role in educating the community. This initiative is vital in raising both awareness and funds in the fight against cancer, and we are honoured to contribute to such a meaningful and impactful cause.”

Sonya Alleyne, Treasurer of the Breast Screening Programme of the Barbados Cancer Society, welcomed RUBIS’ involvement.

“The Breast Screening Programme of the Barbados Cancer Society is thrilled to welcome Team RUBIS on board as a sponsor for the Walk for the Cure event on Oct 6, 2024. We are mindful that there is a great demand on your marketing spend and are thankful that you chose to invest your dollars in this extremely important area. Your dollars go to ensure that breast cancer screening is done with cutting-edge equipment and diagnostic tools. This way, we can detect breast cancer early and commence lifesaving treatment. Early detection is your BEST protection,” Ms. Alleyne stated.

With its contribution, RUBIS continues to demonstrate its commitment to social responsibility, supporting critical health initiatives that positively impact the lives of Barbadians. (PR)

CAPTION: L-R – Rudolph Smith (RUBIS Sports Club), Sonya Alleyne (Treasurer, Breast Screening Programme), Elsa Yearwood-Gill (RUBIS Sports Club), and Mellissa Broomes (RUBIS Brand Marketing Specialist).

Health

Walk for the Cure Activity Heats up

Activity surrounding the largest walk-for-a-cause in the Eastern Caribbean heats up, as plans are confirmed for the Walk for the Cure which takes place on Sunday 6^th October 2024 starting at 3.30 p.m.

Walk Manager for the BSP Michelle Straughn indicating the location of a tent to one of the sponsors while Samantha Suttle Walk Manager for the bank (front) speaks to Daveny Ellis of DL Smith Productions.

Interest is high from corporate sponsors and their staff who are ready to take part in the walk, as well as the numerous vendors who will be on hand for the expected 20,000 people who will be either walking or running for the Breast Screening Programme (BSP) of the Barbados Cancer Society.

*Walk Manager for the BSP Michelle Straughn indicating to the sponsors one of the locations for their banners with Walk Manager for CIBC Samantha Suttle behind her.*

Many of the sponsors and vendors were on hand for the site visit on Thursday to see where they would physically set up their tents and banners and also get a final briefing on the route which starts at Warrens again this year. (PR)

Health

PwC in the Caribbean makes donation to Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Ross Parker, PwC East Caribbean Territory Leader, proudly announced a donation of BDS$30,000 to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Barbados. The announcement happened at a PwC cocktail reception attended by the PwC network firms operating in the Caribbean’s core leadership team, the local PwC partnership, and key PwC clients and contacts from corporate Barbados.

The NICU at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital plays a critical role in providing specialised care to newborns, particularly those born prematurely or with medical complications. It also supports obstetrics and gynaecology with antenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum emergencies. This donation will assist with the purchase of much needed equipment that will help to improve overall patient care. These enhancements are vital for ensuring that the most vulnerable of newborns receive the best possible start in life.

When announcing the donation Ross Parker said, “At PwC, we believe in giving back to the communities that support us. We want to thank the NICU, its doctors and staff for their tireless work and dedication to treating those in need. They’ve provided critical care to the children of many of our PwC colleagues, families and friends, for which we are so grateful. This donation to the NICU underscores our commitment to supporting the health and well-being of the communities we serve, making a positive impact where it matters the most. We are honoured to contribute to the health and future of Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean’s youngest citizens, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.”

PwC had the honour of presenting the cheque to Dr. Angela Jennings and Dr. Gillian Birchwood. Dr. Birchwood expressed her gratitude on behalf of the NICU, highlighting that the donation will significantly enhance the vital care provided to newborns.

Caption: From left to right: Ross Parker, PwC East Caribbean Territory Leader, Dr. Angela Jennings, Head of the Pediatrics Dept, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Dr. Gillian Birchwood, Head of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital. (PR)