This positive trend comes as the organisation prepares for its second annual Cemix Prostate Cancer Run/Walk, set for Sunday at 3 p.m. at the Garrison Savannah. The event aims to raise further awareness and support for early detection of prostate cancer.

During a site visit at the Garrison Savannah, where the event will kick off, Michelle Straughn, walk manager for the Barbados Cancer Society, said the simplified testing process has had a significant impact on numbers.

“Early detection is important in any disease and before it used to be an invasive test, but it’s changed to a blood test. So if the PSA [prostate-specific antigen] levels are raised, then you get further tests,” she said.

Straughn also noted the availability of a DNA test for genetic predisposition to prostate cancer at a reduced price, making early detection more accessible.

“If there were any males in your family that would have had prostate cancer, then obviously you would have a greater level of being susceptible to the disease,” she said. “So there’s also a DNA test that can be done to show if it’s in your family line and that test is at a reduced price of $200,” she said, noting a significant reduction from the usual cost of around $1 000.

The event manager stressed the importance of community support in conducting the necessary research on prostate cancer and further offsetting associated costs for men across the island.

Straughn outlined the routes for the walk and run which will both start and end at the Garrison, with the run beginning at 3:45 p.m. and the walk at 4 p.m.

She added that partners, the Scottish District Grand Lodge of Barbados, were instrumental in putting the routes together.

Glyne Grannum, a member of the lodge, said: “This is a very important event for Barbadian men and we were very privileged … when we were able to find a willing partner to raise the profile of the disease and its impact on Barbadian men and at the same time, to be able to, from that awareness, get greater sponsorship for the issue.”

Grannum also revealed what he described as a significant increase in registration by lodge members.

“The registration for this year from the Scottish District Grand Lodge is indeed a greater number than last year and not only testimony to the seriousness with which the lodge treats this project but also wider understanding within Barbados,” he said.

The organisers have called on the community to join the event, highlighting the collective effort needed to continue improving health outcomes for Barbadian men.

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The HNI Foundation, the non-profit arm of the Healthier Nation Initiative co-founded by Sheldon Jones, has been working to uplift lower socio-economic areas across the island and the Caribbean. Its mission is to deliver accessible and sustainable healthcare services to those struggling with economic disadvantages.

“The foundation’s mandate is to provide practical, accessible, and sustainable health and wellness solutions to vulnerable populations in lower socio-economic communities in Barbados and the wider region,” Jones explained. Unlike many organisations that solely offer education, HNI takes a more hands-on tack. “While education is essential, we found that economic factors significantly impact a person’s ability to act on that education.”

To bridge this gap, the foundation brings free exercise programmes, medical testing through partnerships with Ross University, and collaborative efforts offering health services directly to communities at little to no cost. “We’re bringing solutions into the community, ensuring that even those in high-risk categories have access to the resources they need to manage their health better,” Jones added.

The foundation has identified key demographics in significant need of assistance, including single mothers, the elderly and disabled persons – groups often at higher risk for diseases. By conducting wellness checks and providing fitness programmes and health packages, HNI aims to manage and mitigate these risks through close cooperation with community leaders.

At an outreach event in Hillaby, St Andrew, residents began arriving from 7.30 a.m., for the 8 a.m. start. Jones praised the collaborative approach: “Our team deserves full credit. We aimed to create a more community-focused approach, less corporate, and more personal.”

He highlighted the vital roles played by community liaison officers Rosemary Clarke and Gillian Marshall in personally engaging with local leaders, as well as project officer Carl Griffith’s organisational efforts. “Our approach, centred on personal engagement, makes a significant difference. It transforms HNI from a nameless, faceless entity into a group of people genuinely interested in the community’s well-being.”

The partnership with Ross University was also hailed as a “godsend”, with representatives ensuring free, comprehensive medical checks through the involvement of students. Jones emphasised the aim of empowering people to take charge of their health: “It’s not that difficult to be healthy. It requires intentionality, just like any other goal. Health is based on movement, a balanced diet, and regular check-ups.”

While the outreach saw an impressive turnout, with up to 30 people at a time, quality remained the focus. “It’s about providing thorough, meaningful checks to a targeted group,” said Jones. “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.”

Looking ahead, HNI has ambitious plans for regional expansion to territories like Antigua and Grenada this year, aided by a partnership with financial services giant Sagicor. Jones emphasised the importance of sustainability and follow-up assessments to gauge the effectiveness of their interventions over time.

He also highlighted the need to combat increasingly sedentary modern lifestyles: “Movement is crucial, yet often overlooked. Many jobs today are sedentary, contributing to health risks. As a personal trainer, I emphasise that exercise doesn’t mean going to a gym—it’s about finding enjoyable activities to stay active.”

For those inspired by HNI’s work, Jones offered this message: “Improving your quality of life is simpler than it seems. Small changes in diet and regular movement can make a big difference. Find activities you enjoy staying active and make balanced dietary choices. Even minor adjustments can significantly enhance your health and well-being.”

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This is where Tameka Jones comes in. She is one of the phlebotomists with the Blood Collection Centre of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Located in Jemmotts Lane, Ladymeade Garden, a stone’s throw from the Winston Scott Polyclinic, the pale blue building is home to the national blood bank.

Jones is on a mission to dispel fears and encourage more Barbadians to donate blood. Her insights reveal not only the challenges faced by the blood bank but also the crucial role of community involvement in maintaining a steady blood supply.

“There’s a significant fear of giving blood among Barbadians, and it’s hard to pinpoint exactly why,” she told Barbados TODAY. “The biggest reason people give is their fear of needles. It’s understandable — needles can be daunting — but really, it’s just one small prick. That initial prick might cause a little stinging sensation, but it doesn’t last throughout the donation process. Once you get over that first prick, you’re good to go.”

Despite the efforts to normalise blood donation, the blood bank routinely appeals for donors. Jones acknowledges this ongoing struggle: “We need a constant supply of blood available for surgeries, injuries, and other medical needs. We want more people to come in voluntarily, not just when a family member or friend needs blood. This helps us maintain a stable supply and be prepared for any situation.”

Jones admits it’s hard to provide a specific number of the ideal supply levels. “The blood bank has a quota they aim to maintain. Whenever we approach that minimum level, we put out an appeal. It’s crucial to always have enough blood on hand to meet our needs.”

She recently participated in an initiative at the Golden Square Freedom Park – a health screening fair put on by the Rotary Club of Barbados along with Ricky Wilson, the unit’s ‘Blood Ambassador’ – holder of the record for the most consistent donor.

Jones aims to give Wilson more companions. “Our goal is to get more people to donate voluntarily. Currently, we mostly see replacement donors — those who donate to a specific person in need. If we have more voluntary donors, we wouldn’t face shortages when emergencies arise,” she said.

For his part, Wilson is a resolute pillar of advocacy in the realm of blood donation. He dedicates his time to spreading awareness and encouraging voluntary blood donations.

“My journey began in sixth form at [Harrison] College,” he recalled. “One of our classmates was involved in a hit-and-run accident, and the headmaster asked for volunteers over 18 to donate blood. We were eager to skip classes but also scared. Surprisingly, the experience was far more positive than we anticipated. Since then, I’ve been a regular donor.”

Reflecting on his long-term commitment, the public servant added: “I’ll be 62 this year and have given blood over 130 times. My next donation will likely be on June 14th, World Blood Donor Day, when the Blood Collection Centre holds a special drive.”

His extensive experience makes him an ideal advocate. “The process is straightforward and safe,” he explained. “You fill out a questionnaire, get a small pinprick to check your platelet count, and once you’re cleared, they take your blood pressure. The area is sterilised, and then you’re hooked up to donate. It takes about 10-15 minutes to fill a bag.

“After donating, you rest for 15 minutes, have some juice and biscuits, and then you’re good to go. The entire process takes about 45 minutes. It’s a small-time commitment for a significant impact—you can potentially save up to three lives with one donation.”

Acknowledging that people are often frightened of needles and worry about the safety of the process, he added: “It’s one of the safest procedures, thanks to rigorous protocols ensuring both donor and recipient safety. There used to be fears about STIs and STDs, but those concerns are mitigated by strict screening and testing of all blood donations.”

Wilson pointed to the importance of voluntary donors over replacement donors, who donate to specific individuals.

“We aim to increase the number of voluntary donors to maintain a steady blood supply without urgent appeals. Ideally, we’d love to have at least one blood donor in every family,” he said.

“We use special drives like World Blood Donor Day to attract new donors and encourage them to return regularly. Even donating twice a year can make a huge difference.”

The Blood Collection Centre is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Some practical advice for donors: it is best to eat something and drink plenty of fluids before coming.

Wilson assured: “The well-trained and knowledgeable team is there to make the process as smooth as possible.”

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During the presentation of the awards at the Barbados Community College (BCC), Director of Corporate Banking, Barbados & OECS,CIBC Caribbean, Jeffrey Newton commended first-year student Rashawn Gibson, second-year student Kayli Jordan and third-year student Shannon Yarde for pursuing a career in nursing.

“It has to be a calling and a commitment to want to care for others the way nurses are called upon to do, and I commend the three of you, because in this fast-paced, technologically driven world today, it’s easy for young people to get caught up in the glitz and want to get in professions that are considered glamorous, and shun those that are not. That’s what we call nursing a calling… – you are there for people at their most vulnerable,” he said.

“Few people would see you on those nights when you are on duty and can’t sleep like the rest of us because you are taking care of sick people in your care, or dealing sometimes with an unpleasant side effect of people being ill, and worried. By enrolling in the Barbados Community College, you are giving a commitment to help others when they cannot help themselves, and that is a noble commitment.”

Director of Corporate Banking, Barbados & OECS, CIBC Caribbean, Jeffrey Newton. (HG)

The scholarships are each worth $2 000, and cover registration fees, books, and uniforms.

Newton said: “We are pleased to hear that all of the students that have been awarded to date, continue to maintain good GPAs and excellent overall performances, with the first group awarded in 2021 due to graduate this year. This is pleasing news for a sponsor.”

“This year, on advice from the college, the scholarships are distributed across the years of the programme. So we have a first-year, second-year, and third-year student; whereas in previous years they were awarded to all first-year students.”

Meanwhile, Head of the Nursing Department at BCC Dr Sonia Watson-Miller said she was pleased to see the scholarships continue.

“I am proud that this opportunity has continued since 2021. Our selection of the students was based on three categories, not only the academic performance but also their personality and any financial [assistance] that was needed. Our pass rate has been improving for the last five years, and last year we had the highest of 91 per cent. So our pass rate has been improving,” she said.

Gibson expressed gratitude that she was selected.

“I am truly honoured and never thought that I would be given this opportunity. It truly shows that hard work and dedication pays off, and it motivates me to continue to work harder and to make a difference in the field of nursing,” she said. 

“This scholarship will not only help to ease the financial burden, allowing students to focus mainly on their studies but also not to worry about the cost. I want to end my speech by encouraging more young persons, especially males, to get involved in the profession, as we need more persons in the field.” (SB)

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And the island’s top doctor has declared the COVID-19 pandemic that killed 650 Barbadians from more 100 000 cases is effectively over and the Ministry of Health has stopped vaccinating citizens.  

In an exclusive interview with Barbados TODAY on Monday, Dr Kenneth George said: “We have put surveillance systems in place. We have trained several persons not particularly in public health with respect to managing unusual outbreaks.”

With tourists expected from both traditional and non-traditional markets, Dr George highlighted the government’s concerns regarding certain non-COVID diseases.

“There are other diseases of public health concern which we are monitoring,” he said. “We have made sure that our Barbados Drug Service has the appropriate drugs
available for the treatment of any cases of tuberculosis, malaria…because, when people travel, they travel sometimes with the disease.”

Despite the anticipated influx of foreign visitors during the prestigious tournament, the chief medical advisor expressed optimism about the public health situation. 

He said the outlook for the World Cup “is good”. 

“I don’t expect any major outbreak of any serious disease,” he said, emphasising the importance of proper food handling practices “to protect the food source for Barbadians and visitors alike”.

In a new development, Dr George reported that while “a few” COVID-19 cases emerge occasionally, there is currently “no active” vaccine programme related to the virus. 

“We haven’t given AstraZeneca vaccine for about 18 months. There has been no AstraZeneca vaccine on the market in Barbados for a while. The COVID pandemic is over…we still get a few cases, and there is no active vaccine in Barbados for COVID at the moment.”  

This revelation comes after AstraZeneca’s decision to withdraw its COVID-19 vaccine from further production, citing a shift in demand towards newer, updated vaccines due to the emergence of new variants. 

While the vaccine was estimated to have saved millions of lives from more than three billion doses, it has also been liked to rare, and sometimes fatal, blood clots.

Addressing the unavailability of COVID-19 vaccines in Barbados, Dr George explained: “We are not vaccinating people. The reason is that vaccines are very expensive, and the smaller markets were traditionally shut out. We had gotten a few offers of vaccine, but the vaccines were too close to the expiratory date; and we took a decision that we are not going to take vaccines from countries that wanted to offer vaccines to Barbados.”

The chief medical officer reiterated the ministry’s stance on administering only efficacious vaccines to Barbadians, considering factors such as expiry dates. 

“There are no [COVID] vaccines available in Barbados, period,” he declared.

emmanueljoseph@barbadostoday.bb

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The event, held under the banner of the Rotary Club’s Health and Wellness Initiative, was spearheaded by the club’s president, Ermine Darroux-Francis. Rotary Club is one of the oldest in Barbados, boasting a proud 61-year history and a membership exceeding 110.

“We started at 9 a.m. and people were waiting to get tested. So, this in itself is a success for us,” Darroux-Francis told Barbados TODAY, adding that from early in the morning, Barbadians were lining up to take part in the event.

She expressed her satisfaction with the turnout, emphasising the importance of early detection in the fight against NCDs.

“Barbadians are responding, and this is good because we believe early detection and knowing your status is the first step to help fight NCDs,” she added.

The initiative, which started in September last year, saw Rotarians traversing all 11 parishes to conduct early screenings. The Rotary Club President explained that the decision to embark on this project stemmed from the alarming rates of NCDs reported by health authorities in the region. With a focus on early screening and raising awareness, the Rotary Club aimed to make a tangible difference in combating these diseases.

Reflecting on the broader spectrum of Rotary’s endeavours, Darroux-Francis highlighted their commitment to seven key areas of focus, including disease prevention and youth empowerment. “For us, the economic value of this particular project is more than $600,000,” she revealed, underscoring the club’s substantial investment in community health.

Acknowledging Rotary’s ongoing initiatives, particularly in youth development, Darroux-Francis outlined their Youth Elevation Scheme, conducted in collaboration with the Juvenile Liaison Scheme. “Our aim is to boost their confidence, enhance their communication and listening skills, and help them to think before they act,” she stated.

The event was a culmination of a nine-month-long endeavour by the Rotary Club of Barbados, dedicated to combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) within the community. (Photo by Ryan Gilkes)

In addition to youth-focused endeavours, the Rotary Club of Barbados extends its support to various community projects, ranging from disaster management to medical assistance. Their partnership with organisations such as the Child Care Board exemplifies their commitment to holistic community welfare.

Addressing concerns about the sustainability of their health initiatives, Darroux-Francis emphasised collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health and Wellness and surgical and educational institutions. “We expect the project to continue and to provide support to the community,” she affirmed while highlighting the collaborative effort that underpinned the event’s success. 

Among the organisations taking part were Sagicor Life Inc, Ross University, the Blood Collection Centre of the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Bayview Hospital and Laboratory, the Barbados Cancer Society, the Barbados Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Maria Holder Diabetes Center for the Caribbean, and the Diabetes and Hypertension Association, Wibisco and Pelican Produce. (RG)

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After several years of pleading with men to come forward and have their prostates tested, the signs point to a drastic change in behaviour, said Cancer Support Services’ spokesman Antoine Williams as he spoke to reporters at the end of a two-day nurses’ training workshop at Coconut Court Beach Hotel.

“When we do our prostate testing sessions, we are seeing the increases,” he said. “We try to measure it based on the numbers. So, for example, we’ve had 100, 120, 140 [men coming forward]. The numbers are increasing, which is good, and again the age groups are also increasing, so there is that awareness. We are seeing men who are even coming in as groups, whether it’s with the church (or) community groups, so there is that definite increase.”

Williams added that more people are seeking the charity’s financial support, care and counselling services: “I would say that there is definitely an uptake.”

Reverend Anderson Kellman, one of the facilitators of the programme. (SB)

Reverend Anderson Kellman, one of the facilitators of the nurse enrichment programme, said more men are also coming forward to seek counselling to help them cope with their cancer diagnosis.

“There are still more women coming for counselling than men, but I’ve seen a significant number of men come for therapy, and that is a very heartwarming reality,” he said. “We as men sometimes… grin and bear to our own destruction, but yes, we are seeing a lot more men coming now seeking counselling…. I think that is a very good sign.”

Despite the encouraging signs, the lack of human resources available to deal effectively with the demand for services is still a concern, the officials said.

“I think people have said in the sessions that the issue of not having enough manpower that they desire is a major concern. Of course, people are more demanding now in terms of service. Once upon a time, there was a mystique in terms of doctors, the nurses and the medical people, but now people can go online and read stuff and therefore have different kinds of expectations. That also puts pressure in terms of the scarce resources that they have at the QEH.

“We are not going to push a panic button, but all we are simply saying is that the (patients) are more demanding now, therefore the idea of service becomes even more important,” Reverend Kellman said.

Seventeen nurses participated in this year’s enrichment programme which drew nursing officers, registered nurses and nursing assistants from all areas of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, from the Accident and Emergency Department to the antenatal clinic. The nurses were trained in teamwork, emotional intelligence and palliative care. (SB)

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Health officials have noticed an increase in the cases of gastrointestinal illnesses in Barbados.

The uptick in cases in persons older than five years moved from 27 in the week prior to April 27, to 34 cases at the end of that week. Previously, there were only 11 cases recorded. The alert level for this age group, at this time of the year, is less than six cases.

In children under five years old, the number of cases has moved from two to eight, for the week ending April 27.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness reported that for the subset of cases tested, foodborne pathogens had been identified (bacterial and viral) but no single source or event had been linked to the majority of cases.

It therefore urged members of the public to practise good hand hygiene which is the most effective way of reducing the transmission of many bacterial and viral illnesses. This includes washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and drying them with disposable tissue. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitiser is recommended.

“Persons purchasing items to eat should ensure that sellers conduct appropriate food handling practices, such as protecting food from flies and other vectors; using suitable utensils to touch food; and maintaining hot or cold items at the correct temperatures,” it said.

The ministry also reported a moderate increase in respiratory illnesses has also been noted in persons over five years old, during the week ending April 27.

Health officials have advised that people keep unwashed hands away from the eyes, nose and mouth, and to generally avoid touching these areas as germs can enter the body this way.

(BGIS/BT)

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On Thursday, May 2, the following districts will be sprayed: Chelston Cross Gap, Chelston Avenue and Garden, Tamarind Avenue, Chapel Place, Dalkeith Village, Seamen Village, Bullens Avenue, Paddock Road and avenues, Kings Village, Deighton Road, and Gooding Land and avenues.

The fogging exercise for the week will conclude on Friday, May 3, when the Unit visits Dayrells Road, Brathwaite Gap, Gooding Road, Plum Close, Overdene Drive, Ventor Gardens, and surrounding districts.

Fogging takes place from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. daily. Householders are reminded to open their windows and doors to allow the spray to enter. Children should not be allowed to play in the fog.

Members of the public are advised that the completion of scheduled fogging activities may be affected by events beyond the Unit’s control. In such circumstances, the Unit will return to communities affected in the soonest possible time.

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If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental illness, experiencing emotional distress or harbouring thoughts of self-harm, a new 24-hour mental health hotline is officially here to help. 

Lifeline Barbados – 536-4500 – was officially launched Friday by the government to offer support for mental health issues.

Already, the helpline has received more than 300 calls since it began operating two months ago, revealing anxiety, depression, social issues, other personal matters, financial challenges, and thoughts of suicide among callers.

“The vast majority of the calls related to suicide ideation were categorised as low risk,” Minister of State in the Ministry of Health Davidson Ishmael told attendees at the helpline’s launch at the ministry’s Culloden Road offices. “What we found interesting and encouraging is that there were several calls from persons who simply wanted to speak to someone.”

Lifeline Barbados was established in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) with the goal of addressing the growing number of mental health challenges faced by Barbadians, particularly following the peak of the COVID pandemic, according to Ishmael.

In recent years, mental health has risen in importance for Barbadians, prompting the government to address the challenge, he said.

Ishmael said: “Barbadians would be acutely aware that we had a period of time in recent years where there was an unfortunate and undesirable spate of suicides which occurred within our island, and which captured the immediate attention of our government and varied stakeholders and partners within the mental health space. This captured attention quickly turned to robust planning, and that robust planning has led us to decisive action in the form of the creation of Lifeline Barbados.”

The hotline began operating “quietly” in February, operating from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily on two shifts, including holidays. Now, with help from the ministry’s partners, training for the hotline operators has been carried out, said the minister.

“The hotline is currently staffed by 15 persons, comprising the hotline manager, four supervisors, and ten hotline operators,” Ishmael said. “The operators who man the phones and interface with the caller will be responsible for providing general mental health information, emotional support and crisis intervention services. Accordingly, I can confirm that the entire hotline staff have been trained to perform their critical functions. With the support of our strategic partner PAHO/WHO, the ministry was able to engage the services of an international consultant to develop the standard operating procedures and to train the staff in the hotline in helpline crisis intervention techniques.”

The minister stressed that although the island’s suicide rate was well below the global average, suicide and self-harm were “fully recognised” as health issues prompting the need for the helpline.  

“Local health statistics show that on average, twice as many persons [have]sought out mental health services at our multiple polyclinics as compared to the pre-COVID years,” said Ishmael. 

“Lifeline Barbados has been established based on international best practice guidelines, and it is anticipated that it will further enhance our national response to mental health challenges, allowing for immediate and appropriate interventions and follow-up. Ultimately, the ministry’s objective is to ensure that all citizens have improved access to quality mental health services that meet their needs, without exposing them to any financial hardships or duress.”

The minister also assured that a complete restructuring of the country’s mental health framework was on the horizon.

(SB)

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