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.

The post ‘Run up’: Prostate cancer screening on the rise appeared first on Barbados Today.

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.”

The post Health charity’s hands-on approach appeared first on Barbados Today.

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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.”

The post Blood brothers and sisters: Unit seeks more donors appeared first on Barbados Today.

Santo Domingo.- With the aim of providing a comprehensive and safe healthcare environment for its patients, the Medical Center for Diabetes, Obesity, and Specialties (CEMDOE) has officially commenced the expansion of its services. This expansion, with an approximate investment of 22 million dollars, will include a modern emergency and stabilization area, as well as hospitalization services and an intensive care unit, providing a complete medical care environment.

Mariela Vicini, founder of CEMDOE, expressed that “the addition of these new services reflects our unwavering commitment to offer the most comprehensive care, covering all the needs of our patients and accompanying them in every step of their recovery.”

Furthermore, this expansion will also add more than 30 new beds, 4 high-complexity operating rooms, an endoscopy room, and a hemodynamics unit, significantly increasing the medical center’s capacity for care. Additionally, this includes expanding support services such as sterilization central, hospital laundry, among others.

“This expansion symbolizes our continuous effort to provide not only comprehensive healthcare but also safe in all aspects,” states Dr. Gastón Gabin, CEO of CEMDOE. “As the first medical center in the Dominican Republic accredited by the Joint Commission International, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety, now towards its hospital version, ensuring that each patient receives the best possible care in an environment that supports their well-being.”

In addition to the inclusion of these new services, CEMDOE continues to invest in digitalization through its digital medical record, which evolves at the hospital level and will allow comprehensive and coordinated patient care in all the healthcare services offered by the center, optimizing the quality and efficiency of care.

To date, CEMDOE offers more than 40 clinical specialties, through which they have impacted 80,000 patients in healthcare. Additionally, it generates more than 400 direct and indirect jobs, and with this expansion, more than 150 additional jobs are expected. This not only strengthens the operational capacity of the center for quality patient care but also contributes to the development of the healthcare sector in the country.