President Irfaan Ali on Thursday announced an almost US$50 million (GY$10 billion) cash-injection into the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) so that contributors who have not met the required number of contributions could still receive payments. Addressing a National Assembly sitting for several hours, Dr Ali also announced a one-off US$960 cash grant (GY$200,000) to each ...

The test, authorized for use without a prescription, is for use by individuals experiencing respiratory symptoms and uses a nasal swab sample to deliver at-home results in approximately 15 minutes for COVID-19 and influenza (flu). The test detects proteins from both SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) and influenza A and B (the viruses that causes flu).

This is the first over-the-counter (OTC) test that can detect influenza to be granted marketing authorization using a traditional premarket review pathway, which enables the test to be marketed in the absence of an applicable emergency use declaration. Other OTC flu/COVID tests are currently available under emergency use authorization.

“As we enter this year’s annual flu season with respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19 on many of our minds, our ability to detect these pathogens effectively and efficiently can be impactful on our daily lives. Today’s authorization expands the options for individuals with respiratory symptoms to receive information about their health from the comfort of their home,” said Michelle Tarver, M.D., Ph.D., acting director of the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “The FDA continues to take actions that support the development and availability of at-home tests for a variety of medical conditions.”

The test is for use by individuals 14 years or older taking and testing their own sample, or individuals 2 years and older with a sample taken and tested by an adult. The FDA reviewed data from a study of individuals with signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and influenza, which showed that this test correctly identified 99 percent of negative and 92 percent of positive SARS-CoV-2 samples, 99.9 percent of negative Flu A and B samples, and 92.5 percent and 90.5 percent of positive Flu A and Flu B samples, respectively.

Validation data for the test was gathered through the Independent Test Assessment Program (ITAP), a National Institutes of Health (NIH) Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics (RADx®) Tech program, in collaboration with the FDA. ITAP was launched in 2021 to accelerate test evaluation to support the FDA’s regulatory review and the availability of high-quality, accurate and reliable diagnostic tests to the public.

As with all rapid antigen tests, which generally have lower sensitivity than molecular tests, there is a risk of false negative test results. Individuals who test negative and continue to experience symptoms of fever, cough and/or shortness of breath may still have SARS-CoV-2, flu or another respiratory infection and should seek follow up care with their health care provider. Individuals who test positive for SARS-CoV-2 or flu should take appropriate precautions to avoid spreading the virus and should seek follow-up care with their physician or health care provider.

Along with this De Novo authorization, the FDA is establishing criteria called special controls that define the requirements related to labeling and performance testing. When met, the special controls, in combination with general controls, provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness for tests of this type. This action also creates a new regulatory classification, which means that subsequent devices of the same type with the same intended use may go through the FDA’s less burdensome 510(k) pathway, whereby additional devices can obtain marketing clearance by demonstrating substantial equivalence to a predicate device.

The post FDA authorizes marketing of first home flu and COVID-19 combination test outside of emergency use authorities appeared first on Caribbean News Global.

HCC will be spotlighting Caribbean NCD leaders leading up to the 4th UN High Level Meeting on NCDs (HLM4) to be held during the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025.

The HLM4 is a global milestone and stocktaking moment for the international NCD Community to pause and reflect on where we are and what needs to be done to accelerate action as we move towards achieving the 2030 SDGs.

Under the umbrella of the NCD Alliance, the global NCD civil society community will be galvanising over the next 12 months under the banner – Time to Lead. The NCDA Global Week of Action, 15-22 October 2024, will kick off this global campaign which calls on leaders worldwide to step forward and champion efforts to reduce the impact of NCDs on communities.

Despite uneven NCD progress regionally and globally, CARICOM has and continues to show tremendous leadership. Individuals and organisations have stepped up and shown bold unwavering leadership in their communities and countries.

As we look towards the HLM4, uniting around the theme – TIME TO LEAD, the HCC is seeking to recognise and showcase NCD champions – individuals and organisations who have shown exemplary leadership in NCD prevention and control in the Caribbean.

We are inviting our constituents to submit nominations of Caribbean NCD Leaders – individuals and organisations who you believe should be celebrated for their acts – small or large – which have changed the trajectory of the NCD response in your communities or countries.

Who is eligible to be an HCC Caribbean NCD Leader? Individuals (representing civil society, academia and the public sector) and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) working in the Caribbean.

How do you nominate Caribbean NCD Leaders? Use the google form to nominate the names of Individuals (representing civil society, academia and the public sector) or Civil Society Organisations (CSOs).

The google form includes a series of prompts including describing the reason you are nominating this person/organisation, 2-3 key contributions/achievements which merit recognition as a NCD Leader and submitting a quote from the nominee in response to this question: What should CARICOM policymakers be prioritizing to accelerate action on NCDs?

The HCC looks forward to your submissions.

Submit Your Nomination Here

Debisette Consulting Empowerment Organization

Debisette Consulting Empowerment Organization is a non profit organization dedicated to empowering youth and communities through mentorship, youth development, and conflict resolution. Adults also receive individual motivational interviewing session where they gain self esteem and career goals to become more self sufficient. Many people can not afford therapy and they should not be deprived of that service. We all need someone who we can trust and be non judgemental to talk to.Read more
Debisette Consulting Empowerment Organization Achievements

Debisette Consulting Empowerment Organization (DCEO) stands at the forefront of Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) prevention, driving transformative change through innovative programs and personalized interventions. The organization’s targeted youth mentorship programs equip participants with critical life skills and knowledge, empowering them to embrace healthier lifestyles and reduce their risk of developing NCDs. Through comprehensive substance abuse counselling, DCEO addresses a leading risk factor for chronic illnesses, fostering recovery and overall wellness.

Additionally, DCEO integrates conflict resolution training to promote effective stress management, a cornerstone in preventing hypertension and related conditions. A cornerstone of its approach is Motivational Interviewing (MI), which supports individuals facing socioeconomic barriers in making sustainable lifestyle changes. By empowering participants to take ownership of their health decisions, MI significantly increases the likelihood of sustained improvements.

These initiatives underscore DCEO’s unwavering dedication to building healthier, more resilient communities while bridging the gap in health equity.

What should CARICOM policymakers be prioritizing to accelerate action on NCDs?

Addressing socioeconomic inequalities: Lower income populations often face higher NCD risk due to limited access to healthy food, health care, and safe space for exercise. Policies that address these inequalities such as subsidies for healthy food, health education in schools .

Data collection and monitoring is also needed, there is a need for accurate and up to date health data.

Priscilla Prevost

Mrs. Priscilla Prevost, a Family Nurse Practitioner, has been a champion for NCD prevention and management since 1990.
Her prominence as a health professional in Dominica is evidenced by her passion for the wellbeing of people as she advocates for and provides services across the Public, Private and Civil Society sectors. She has worked tirelessly from 1990 when she coordinated the first health expo in Dominica in collaboration with ADRA to present as she conducts screening, self-management training and food demonstrations within communities and schools on the island.

Read moreNurse Prevost connects with the wider population with a weekly radio Healthy Living Broadcast and Morning Breakfast Show along with health tips five days per alternate week.

She is a strong supporter of Dominica Diabetes Association and the Dominica Cancer Society and serves as Health Director for the East Caribbean Conference of Seventh Day Adventists for Barbados and Dominica.

Priscilla Prevost Achievements

In 1995, Mrs Prevost conducted a six-week programme titled “Lifestyle Intervention for Chronic Disease” in all the communities within the St. Joseph Health District. For this she received a nutrition award from CFNI (Caribbean Food and Nutrition Institute)

In 2001 she launched the Healthy Lifestyle and corporate Wellness Services, a private business aimed to identify and reduce risk factors for non-communicable diseases.

1n 2003 she began an employee wellness programme with utility companies and banks in Dominica. Where 75-80% of staff were screened annually until 2017. The companies concerned attributed a decrease in absenteeism and increased staff morale as positive outcomes of the programme.

What should CARICOM policymakers be prioritizing to accelerate action on NCDs?

At the 75th World Assembly in 2022 member states adopted new recommendations for prevention and management of obesity and endorsed the WHO accelerated plan to stop obesity (WHO,2022).

Obesity, a disease as well as a risk factor, is one of the major contributing factors to diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer. It is noticeable that enough is not being done from a policy maker and also from a service delivery standpoint. I am therefore strongly recommending that accelerated action be taken to develop policies prohibiting the promotion and sale of unhealthy foods on and around school compounds and at school sponsored events.

Additionally, policies regarding the creation or allocation of safe spaces for physical activity in every community should be prioritized.

Abi Begho

Abi Begho is an inspirational leader in public health and the founder and director of Lake Health and Wellbeing, a public health NGO in St. Kitts and Nevis. Abi is a fearless advocate who has amplified the voices of vulnerable groups, ensuring they are heard and supported. Among her many accomplishments, she: spearheaded the SKN Disability Working Group, advocating for greater inclusivity across all sectors, launched the EmpowHer program to empower women living with chronic diseases, and developed the Menstrual Health Education program to equip young girls with essential knowledge about their periods and how to identify signs of reproductive conditions such as fibroids.

Read more

Some of Abi’s Achievements

• Created the opportunity for the youth perspective to be integrated into the public health space through the Youth Health Advocates program.
• Created the You’re Sweet Enough Campaign which has garnered local, regional, and international attention and awareness of the need for sugar-sweetened beverage policies, school nutrition policies, and front of package warning labels.
• Spearheaded the creation of the St. Kitts and Nevis NCD Alliance and its recent full membership with the global NCD Alliance.

What should CARICOM policymakers be prioritising to accelerate action on NCDs?

NCDs are the leading cause of death in the Caribbean, and urgent action is needed from CARICOM leaders. We urge our leaders to unite to accelerate the development and implementation of policies that focus on preventing, detecting, and managing NCDs. Prevention offers the greatest potential for impact, so we call on all CARICOM leaders to focus on healthy food policies, (such as SSB taxes, trans fat elimination, salt reduction and front-of-package labelling), promoting physical activity, tackling pollution and expanding NCD screening. Our leaders must make health a priority to avoid the premature loss of our loved ones from preventable NCDs.

Breast Friends

A very long time ago Carolyn Aziz had a dream. Long before the word Cancer was actually mentioned in polite conversation, she was afflicted with breast cancer. She advocated single handedly and brought others on board.  She wanted to share her story so that others would understand that there was no shame in having Cancer and to let others know that fear could only kill.

At the time, it was a diagnosis associated with doom and gloom. She wanted to change that for Antiguans. She wanted to share a message of hope.

She continued as long as she could and laid the foundation. Then Ms. Bird joined the fight.

Read moreToday Breast Friends (Women in Touch ) has led the way. When no one was organizing talks about cancer, they were.  When no one cared to care, they did. When there was little money to be made by the pharmaceutical world in this part of the world, Breast Friends walked, Breast Friends talked.

Breast Friends also helped neighbouring Anguilla and Montserrat. When politicians were not talking about Cancer but were lobbying for NCDs thanks to the Nassau and P.O.S declarations, Breast Friends were advocating.

So you see, for Breast Friends it wasn’t a fad, it wasn’t a fate, it wasn’t just an October month fashion. T’was a group of women along with their families helping to change the stereotype, one small step at a time.

What should CARICOM policymakers be prioritizing to accelerate action on NCDs?

• Caricom leaders must prioritize the war on tobacco and Green spaces (safe and clean). Incentivize exercise in the workplace. Antigua has exercises in the 39ers Square at the Ministry of Health three times weekly for free. In Dominica, the public workday was made shorter to facilitate those who want to exercise.
• Advertisements are needed to promote less alcohol abuse and encourage  eating ground provisions and healthy foods as part of a healthy diet. 
• Stress and psychosocial determinants of Health must be taken more seriously. 

Together we can,  Together we will!

Professor Rohan Maharaj

Professor Maharaj is a beacon in research, medical education and scholarly research in the areas of NCDs, Alcohol reduction, Mental Health Issues and many others. He has contributed immensely during the last 20 years to the sensitisation and education of the population on the harmful effects of alcohol and has lobbied tirelessly for its regulation and control in order to reduce the burden on NCDs. He has provided yeoman clinical services in both the public and private sectors in relation to health promotion, NCD prevention and treatment of NCDs. He is currently an active member of the HCC and led the local efforts for the 2023 Caribbean Alcohol Reduction Day. He is on the cusp of publishing his latest book entitled Rum Songs and Other Alcohol Issues in the English Speaking Caribbean.

Read more
Dr Professor Maharaj’s Achievements

1. Prolific researcher on NCDs and other risk factors associated with NCDs
2. Principal Investigator of ECHORN- Eastern Caribbean Health Outcomes Research Network
   with NCD publications on Consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and T2D diabetes in the Eastern Caribbean, Risk factors for household food insecurity in the Eastern Caribbean Health Outcomes Research Network cohort study and Egocentric Health Networks and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in the ECHORN Cohort Study.
3. Key actor in the quest for alcohol regulation locally and regionally.

What should CARICOM policymakers be prioritizing to accelerate action on NCDs?

Alcohol contributes to cardiovascular disease through its effect of elevating blood pressure, and pericardial disease among others; alcohol is a Class I carcinogen, alcohol contributes to breast, liver, and oropharyngeal cancers; alcohol contributes to mental health issues and is often a co-diagnosis to bipolar, personality and mood disorders. CARICOM and regional governments recognize the fact that alcohol contributes to NCDs. Yet there has been little effort to address this. The WHO recommends 3 ‘Best Buys’ (simple, acceptable, and cost-effective interventions) to tackle alcohol in under-resourced settings- 1. Ban the marketing and advertising of alcohol and its products; 2. Implement price measures, such as taxation, Minimum Unit Pricing, and linking alcohol prices to inflation; and 3. Addressing availability, such as hours of sale and outlet density.

CARICOM policymakers should be working in these areas to reduce the harmful impact of alcohol on our Caribbean communities.

Dr. Asante Le Blanc

Dr, LeBlanc is an exceptional and dedicated leader in public health. As the former Chairman and current Director of the Trinidad and Tobago Cancer Society, Dr. Le Blanc has led with vision and impact, steering initiatives focused on cancer prevention and education. Her commitment to public education has been pivotal in raising awareness about the importance of lifestyle changes to reduce the risks of non-communicable diseases, especially cancer. Through her leadership and advocacy, she continues to make a significant difference in empowering individuals and communities to make healthier choices for long-term well-being.

Read more

Dr Le Blanc’s Achievements

Dr. Asante Le Blanc merits recognition as an NCD Leader for her impactful work in two key areas. First, she spearheaded the implementation of an Anti-Smoking/Vaping Campaign in high schools nationwide, educating youth on the harmful effects of these habits. Her efforts aim to reduce the early adoption of smoking and vaping, fostering healthier future generations. Secondly, through the Trinidad and Tobago Cancer Society’s Cancer Survivors Network, Dr. Le Blanc works closely with patients and survivors, empowering them to advocate for early detection. This initiative not only provides emotional support but also inspires others to undergo screening, promoting early diagnosis and better outcomes.

What should CARICOM policymakers be prioritizing to accelerate action on NCDs?

Dr. Asante Le Blanc merits recognition as an NCD Leader for her impactful work in two key areas. First, she spearheaded the implementation of an Anti-Smoking/Vaping Campaign in high schools nationwide, educating youth on the harmful effects of these habits. Her efforts aim to reduce the early adoption of smoking and vaping, fostering healthier future generations. Secondly, through the Trinidad and Tobago Cancer Society’s Cancer Survivors Network, Dr. Le Blanc works closely with patients and survivors, empowering them to advocate for early detection. This initiative not only provides emotional support but also inspires others to undergo screening, promoting early diagnosis and better outcomes.

CARICOM policymakers should prioritize three key areas to accelerate action on NCDs;

• Strengthening Public Education and Prevention Campaigns Greater emphasis is needed on awareness campaigns, particularly targeting youth, to promote healthy lifestyle choices and reduce risk factors such as smoking, vaping, poor nutrition, and inactivity.
• Expanding Access to Screening and Early Detection Services Policymakers must invest in accessible, affordable screening programs to enable early diagnosis and timely intervention, improving health outcomes for chronic diseases like cancer.
• Implementing Stronger Policy Frameworks and Regulations. This includes enacting stricter tobacco and sugary drink regulations, promoting healthy school environments, and ensuring that health policies are integrated across all sectors for a whole-of-society approach

The post Caribbean NCD Leaders Spotlight appeared first on Healthy Caribbean Coalition.

One Communications, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and several non-governmental organisations, collectively referred to as Champions of Hope, officially launched Pinktober 2024 on Friday, continuing its mission to raise awareness and support for cancer fighters and survivors across Guyana, the company said. Speaking at the launch event themed ‘Many Hearts, One Fight,’ Ian ...

Barbados has recorded its first human case of West Nile Virus (WNV).

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported that “a child less than 15-year-old residing in Bagatelle, St Thomas” tested positive for the virus last month and is still under care and recovering.

The WHO made the disclosure in a post in its Disease Outbreak News on Thursday, assuring that the overall risk to public health is “low”. Based on available information so far, it has not recommended any restrictions on travel and/or trade for Barbados.

WNV is a mosquito-borne virus that causes disease in humans, horses, and birds. It spreads to people through the bite of an infected mosquito, and it can make people sick and even cause death.

“This is the first human case of WNV infection detected in Barbados. Additionally, no infections have been previously documented in birds or horses in this country, making this case both unusual and unexpected,” the WHO said.

“However, the WNV has spread throughout the Caribbean, likely via infected migratory birds. It is possible that the virus is circulating in birds and horses undetected. Despite this, the overall impact on public health remains limited at this stage, as there is currently only one recorded human case and appropriate public health response measures have been implemented. WHO considers the current risk from WNV as low but will continue to evaluate the epidemiological situation in Barbados.”

According to the post, the International Health Regulations (IHR) National Focal Point (NFP) for Barbados notified WHO on September 13 of the confirmed infection.

Giving the details of the case, the WHO said that on June 10, the patient reported the onset of symptoms including headache, fever, vomiting, neck pain and painful knees, and visited a private clinic four days later. A test for dengue conducted on the same day was negative.

The patient was hospitalised on June 16 due to worsening of signs and symptoms, including joint pain, abdominal pain, altered mental status, and slurred speech. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis returned negative results for some bacterial and viral pathogens. Despite treatment, the patient’s condition worsened.

On September 3, blood samples were collected and sent to the Mayo Clinic in the United States for WNV testing. The presence of WNV antibodies was confirmed the following day.

“The patient is still under care and recovering,” the WHO said.

The child had reported visiting a horse stable in February and a beach frequented by horses on June 8, two days before symptom onset.

“Although these exposures to horses were considered risk factors for WNV infection, the precise source of infection remains unspecified,” the WHO said.

After confirmation of the case, the WHO said health authorities in Barbados conducted interviews with the patient’s parents to investigate risk factors such as exposure to animals known to carry WNV, recent travel history, and other relevant factors; and implemented ongoing epidemiological surveillance and testing to ensure no further cases are missed and to evaluate the potential risk of local transmission in the area.

“No other suspected cases of WNV were identified, but public health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely,” it said.

“The risk of international dissemination of WNV from Barbados is low. The virus is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites, with birds as the natural hosts. There is no evidence to suggest that WNV spreads easily between humans or from horses to mosquitoes. Therefore, the potential for widespread international transmission remains low.”

Symptoms of WNV include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. There are no vaccines to prevent or medicines to treat West Nile in people.

The post Child is Barbados’ first human case of West Nile Virus appeared first on Barbados Today.

The 2007 Port of Spain Declaration on non-communicable diseases, endorsed by Heads of Governments, expressed strong support for eliminating trans fats from citizens’ diet. In 2022, CARICOM Ministers of Trade and Health committed to enacting legislation by December 2024 and to eliminating trans fats from the Caribbean food supply by December 2025.

It’s time to follow through!

View/download the Fact sheet

AVOIDING CONSUMPTION GOES BEYOND INDIVIDUAL CHOICE!

On an individual level, we can all reduce our intake of trans fats by avoiding fried, baked and packaged goods that contain hydrogenated oils, partially hydrogenated oils or list trans fats on their labels.

However, in reality, trans fats aren’t always listed on nutrition labels and it’s difficult to tell whether they are being used in street or restaurant food as compared to other fats.

For example, because hard margarine and vegetable shortening contain trans fats, anything made with these products —like biscuits, pies and breads —will likely contain trans fats as well.

That’s why it’s the responsibility of our government, to protect citizens from the harmful effects of trans fats.

Avoiding trans fats goes beyond individual responsibility! Governments need to protect their citizens.

Implementing regulations that limit industrially produced trans fats to no more than 2% of the total fat in all food products or banning partially hydrogenated oils altogether can help solve our trans fats problem. And this is a very achievable goal!

As of July 2024, 58 countries around the world (covering 3.7 billion people) – 9 of them in the Americas – have already enacted best practice policies to eliminate trans fats.

The Caribbean region is, unfortunately, falling behind in taking action despite its commitments.  But it’s not too late!

Eliminating trans fats from our food supply by December 2025 is a win that is still within reach once policymakers fulfill their commitments.

THE CARIBBEAN RELATIONSHIP WITH TRANS FATS!

So far, we only have commitments that have been made. The reality of our relationship with trans fats in the Caribbean is still quite dire despite so many other countries eliminating the harmful substance.

A Jamaican study conducted in 2023, revealed that almost 34% of very commonly consumed foods contained trans fats and about half of all products claiming to have not trans fats actually did. This proves that labels cannot be trusted as a means of detecting trans fats in our foods and further cements the need for policies that protect Caribbean people.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) conducted an assessment on the economic impact of eliminating industrially produced trans fats in Barbados. They found that implementing a national ban in 2019 could have prevented USD 546,246.13 in future productivity losses.

So not only is policy necessary to protect our health, it is likely to contribute positively to our economies as well!

TRANS FATS ARE A DANGER TO CARIBBEAN HEALTH!

There are no health benefits to trans fats but there a slew of harmful effects.

The consumption of trans fats is indeed associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and death from coronary heart disease. A comprehensive analysis in 2010 estimated that 537,000 global deaths from coronary heart disease were linked to trans fats intake, with 160,000 of these deaths occurring in the Americas and the Caribbean, 45% of which were premature.

But there are other risks to consuming trans fats:

Cardiovascular disease is another issue exacerbated by trans fats intake. Trans fats increase LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein), which carries cholesterol through the blood vessels. It is commonly called “bad cholesterol”. Trans fats also decrease HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein), commonly called “good cholesterol”, which carries cholesterol from the blood to the liver where it is broken down and removed from the body.

Type 2 Diabetes is also a risk affected by trans fats consumption as they impair the body’s ability to use insulin effectively.

Chronic Inflammation has also been shown by research to be significantly influenced by the intake of trans fats, contributing to an adverse inflammatory profile.

Obesity has been proven to be exacerbated by the consumption of trans fats as it increases weight gain and the accumulation of visceral fat.

Diminished Mental Performance is another risk of trans fats consumption. Research has revealed adverse effects on the brain and nervous system, and potential implications for cognitive function and mental performance.  A study on dementia patients unearthed a correlation between trans fats levels, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and the severity of cognitive disorders, suggesting a link to cognitive decline.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND TRANS FATS

Trans fats are called by several names and are listed differently on various food labels and nutritional lists. They can be called:

• trans-fatty acids (TFAs)
• unsaturated fatty acids
• trans-unsaturated fatty acids
• hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils

But what exactly are they? How are they produced?

Well, there are two types:

Natural trans fats are produced naturally in very small amounts in the guts of some ruminant animals like cows, sheep, and goats through bacterial transformation of unsaturated fatty acids derived from feed.

On the other hand, industrially-produced trans fats are manufactured by partial hydrogenation of liquid vegetable oils containing unsaturated fatty acids. Hydrogenation is simply the addition of hydrogen to these liquid oils in order to make them solid at room temperature.

Most trans fats come from ultra-processed products —extensively modified versions of natural foods because they give a more desirable taste and texture, and extend the shelf life of these chemically altered food products.

THE HCC’S FIGHT TO HELP ELIMINATE TRANS FATS FROM THE CARIBBEAN

The Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC), in collaboration with Resolve to Save Lives (RTSL) is supporting civil society advocacy for the elimination of industrially-produced trans fatty-acids from the Caribbean food supply.

In January 2024, the HCC launched a project with the primary objective being to collaborate with key regional and national partners to spur policymakers to action and build public awareness and support for the enactment of regulations in CARICOM Member States that will eliminate partially hydrogenated oils from the food supply, and limit trans fatty acid content to no more than 2% of total fat in all food products.

PARTNER LOGOS

Other contributing partners: The CARICOM Secretariat, The Caribbean Public Health Law Forum (CPHLF), The Law and Health Research Unit (LHRU) of the University of the West Indies, Barbados, The O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law, Georgetown University in Washington D.C, the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Barbados (HSFB), The Ministry of Health And Wellness, Barbados, Healthy Bahamas Coalition (HBC), Heart Foundation of Jamaica (HFJ), Lake Health and Wellbeing of St, Kitts and Nevis, The St. Lucia Diabetes & Hypertension Association (SLDHA) and The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, Saint Lucia.

The post Let’s Talk About Trans Fats and Why They Need To Go! appeared first on Healthy Caribbean Coalition.

This regional-youth led activity emerged from the  “Caribbean Youth Voices in Health Advocacy Spaces – Healthy Food Policy Action”, the first of its kind youth meeting on Healthy Food Policies held in February 2024, aims to highlight youth support for school nutrition policies that regulate the sale and marketing of ultra processed products in and around schools. This policy should be supported by the implementation of Octagonal front of package warning labelling. 

Dr. Tiffannie Skerritt, CARICOM Youth Ambassador for Montserrat, led the charge locally, gathering together key stakeholders such as health practitioners, youth leaders and civil society organization representatives to discuss the concerning rise in childhood obesity and NCDs in Montserrat as well as strategies to build a healthier environment, including a healthier school food environment.

The event was covered by various local media houses:

• ZJB Radio – Spirit of Montserrat
• Bahamas At Sunrise
• The ZNS Network
• Alliouagana Express

She noted, “The forum was well supported by key stakeholders to include youth, civil society and policy makers. The forum provided an opportunity to revive the conversation around school nutrition policies and bring greater awareness to the need for front of package labelling. Key interventions summarized epidemiology data about childhood obesity in Montserrat, and obstacles delaying policy implementation in the past. Visionaries endorsed the draft policy and pledged their support in seeing it go ahead. Details from a student focus group expressing challenges to seeking healthier food options in their school environments were also presented.  Overall; attendees benefited from this youth led activity with local media coverage ensuring the message from this  was circulated via news broadcasts and articles.”

Click/tap to listen to listen to Dr. Tiffannie Skerritt on ZJB Radio Montserrat

Healthy Caribbean Youth members and members of the Healthy Bahamas Coalition led an engaging panel discussion in Rawson square in close proximity, symbolically, to the National Parliament Building. A panel of predominantly youth leaders shared the current challenges they face in navigating their school food environment and their vision for an environment where the healthy choice is the easy choice. The event was covered by Eyewitness News and ZNS News. 

Kaj Archer

Kaj Archer, who guided the team, noted that, “The Hope for the Future event provided a platform for the youth of The Bahamas to stand up and speak out about their fundamental right to healthy foods in school environments.

The youth panelists articulated their vision for the future, emphasizing accessible and affordable healthy food options, regulation of ultra-processed foods, and educational initiatives to foster healthy relationships with food among school-aged children. This event underscored the importance of involving youth in policy discussions that directly impact their development.”

On September 25 2024, youth from across the Caribbean will host similar events calling our regional leaders to lead, putting youth first. Ahead of this, youth took over social media on August 12 – International Youth Day to urge governments to prioritize healthy school food environments. On August 14th, key youth advocates and stakeholders from across the Caribbean hosted an Instagram Live discussing the topic further.

All children in the Caribbean deserve to learn and grow in healthy school environments that are not inundated with ultraprocessed products. It has been 17 years since the region’s leaders unified their vision for a healthier Caribbean through the Port of Spain Declaration. Now, it is time for them to revisit previous commitments, including healthier school food environments, #actonfacts and walk the talk for better nutrition in schools. They have the support of the region’s youth.
Danielle Walwyn
Advocacy Officer, HCC and Lead, Healthy Caribbean Youth (youth arm of the HCC)

The post Hope for the Future appeared first on Healthy Caribbean Coalition.

Caribbean Wellness Day (CWD) is one of the regional responses geared towards increasing awareness and promoting measures among CARICOM Member States and their populations, to address the epidemic of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which continue to severely impact the health, economy and development of the Caribbean region.

The theme is – Power Through Collective Action: Good Health is Our Right.

A Message from the President of the HCC

A Message from Dr Kenneth Connell – President, Healthy Caribbean Coalition on this the occasion of Caribbean Wellness Day 2024

A Statement from the Healthy Caribbean Coalition on Caribbean Wellness Day 2024

The HCC – an alliance of over 85 civil Society organisations across the Caribbean – is proud join with partners the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), CARICOM and Ministries of Health to celebrate Caribbean Wellness Day 2024 under the theme Power Through Collective Action: Good Health is Our Right.

As we look towards the 4th United Nations High Level Meeting on NCDs (HLM4) one year away in September 2025, and beyond to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the HCC recalls the vision and leadership of CARICOM Heads of Government seventeen years ago when they endorsed the Port of Spain Declaration on NCDs (POSD). This seminal document embodied the theme of Collective Action – recognising the need for a whole of society and whole of government response to NCDs and catalysing the global community around NCDs triggering the first UNHLM on NCDs in 2011. Although there has been some progress on the goals of the POSD, much remains to be done as evidenced by the 2022 WHO NCD Progress Monitor and the 2024 POS Tracking Grid (prepared by the Sir George Alleyne Chronic Disease Research Centre, UWI); and most concerning, by the continued unacceptably high burden of obesity and NCDs leading to preventable suffering and death of Caribbean citizens across our region.

This year’s CWD theme reminds us that Good Health is Our Right and we must continue to hold our leaders accountable to their commitments and play our respective roles in creating health-supporting environments. Over the next 12 months in lead up to the HLM4, HCC and our Caribbean CSO membership will join the global civil society community – under the banner TIME TO LEAD – calling on our political leaders to demonstrate fearless leadership in accelerating action on NCDs. As we did in 2018, HCC will unite with regional partners to agree on NCD advocacy priorities which will move us closer to achieving meaningful reductions in obesity and NCDs as we work towards achieving the SDGs.

On behalf of the Founding President and the Board of Directors of the HCC, we wish all Caribbean people a Happy Caribbean Wellness Day and look forward to leveraging the power of collective action to ensure every citizen’s right to good health as we work towards the prevention and control of NCDs in the Caribbean.

‘My Health My Right’ a Message from Members of the Healthy Caribbean Youth

Message from Dr Carla Barnett, CARICOM Secretary-General on Caribbean Wellness Day 2024

Caribbean Wellness Day 2024 is being observed on Saturday, 14 September, under the 2020-2024 theme, ‘Power through Collective Action’, and the 2024 sub-theme ‘Good Health is our Right!’

The observation of this day has its roots in the Port of Spain Declaration on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) of 2007, which expressed the commitment of CARICOM Member States to ensure the good health and well-being of the people of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).  It promotes awareness of the impact of NCDs on the people of the Caribbean, along with measures to reduce the incidence of NCDs.

Influencing and empowering individuals to make healthier choices requires collective action and a multisectoral approach. National policies to support education on healthy food options, physical activity, and access to quality health services throughout the life course remain cornerstones to effectively address these diseases.

The Caribbean Community has been working to address NCDs, a leading cause of death in the Region, along with agencies such as the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and the Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC), an alliance of civil society to combat NCDs.  The Community’s initiatives to actively support the rights of citizens to good health include the ‘Tobacco-Free Caribbean’ and ‘Caribbean Moves’ initiatives.

CARICOM Heads of Government have prioritised addressing crime and violence as a public health issue. Dr the Honourable Keith Rowley, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, who leads on Energy and Security (Drugs and Illicit Arms) in the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet, hosted a regional symposium in April 2023. A follow-up forum is to be hosted by the Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, in November this year, as the Community continues to focus on this scourge of violence, which impacts our right to health and safety.

The Community’s efforts to increase agricultural production is intended to support good health by making more fresh food available and affordable, thereby reducing the demand for imported foods which are preserved and contain unhealthy levels of salt and fats.

As we mark Caribbean Wellness Day, I urge all Member States to continue their efforts to address the Region’s health challenges through a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach. I also encourage everyone to make those changes, such as consuming more fresh food and increasing activity levels, that will help to improve your health.

A healthy and happy Caribbean Wellness Day 2024 to all!

Caribbean Wellness Day 2024 | Official Statement by Dr. Lisa Indar Interim Executive Director, CARPHA

Regional Messages on Caribbean Wellness Day

The post Caribbean Wellness Day – Messages from Across the Region appeared first on Healthy Caribbean Coalition.

Dear Students of 2030,

2030 isn’t just a milestone—it’s a turning point for global development; it marks our global check-in on the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, including Goal 3:Good Health and Well-being. As you step into this new school year during this critical year, let’s rewind to 2024. We were a group of youth health advocates from across the Caribbean who fought passionately for healthier school food environments. Back then, students like yourselves were growing and learning in spaces that did not support your physical and mental well-being—a clear violation of your right to health. We could not just stand by and do nothing. So, we worked tirelessly to address these challenges, creating a vision for a healthier future—a future we hope has become a reality for you in this year of global accountability.

Food Environments
In our school environments of 2024, ultra-processed foods—foods high in Salt, Sugar, Fat (including trans fats) and other additives —dominated school menus. These unhealthy foods were widely available and aggressively marketed in schools. Branded giveaways, brightly coloured product posters, and fast-food companies sponsoring school events were commonplace. Even social media was not safe, as children were constantly exposed to ads featuring popular personalities promoting these harmful choices.

Why was this a problem? The constant exposure to unhealthy food ads directly influenced children’s eating habits, driving them toward unhealthy choices that increased their risk of obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). By 2024, one in three Caribbean children was living with overweight or obesity, and nearly 75% of deaths in the region were linked to NCDs. We hope that by 2030, these statistics have shifted for the better, and that your generation is now thriving in healthier environments—ones shaped by the commitments made by our region and global leaders.

Policy and Youth Advocacy
CARICOM leaders acknowledged the gravity of NCDs as early as 2007 in the Port of Spain Declaration, yet progress remained slow. A major issue fueling the high rates of obesity and NCDs was the absence of strong policies to safeguard school food environments. In many countries, implementation and enforcement lagged, leaving children exposed and vulnerable to unhealthy food options..

Caribbean youth—including advocates like us—took a stand in response. We held policymakers accountable for their commitments, demanding more action through public campaigns and dialogue. In Barbados, for example, youth advocates contributed to developing the School Nutrition Policy, which was implemented in 2023. Additionally, the Barbados Childhood Obesity Prevention Coalition launched the “Cool School Nutrition Tour” in early 2024, youth advocates visited schools nationwide to educate students on the policy’s benefits. The advocates also launched an article for International Youth Day that year, highlighting the firm stance against fast-food companies that sought to undermine these efforts.

In Jamaica, youth from the Jamaica Youth Advocacy Network (JYAN) and UNICEF Jamaica were actively involved in consultations on their country’s School Nutrition Policy. When authorities failed to confirm the policy’s implementation for the 2024-2025 academic year, youth advocates launched an open letter demanding urgent action from the Ministry of Education and Youth (MOEY).

In February 2024, the Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC) and Healthy Caribbean Youth (HCY), JYAN, the Heart Foundation of Jamaica (HFJ), The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Barbados (HSFB), and UNICEF Jamaica to hold the very first regional youth meeting on healthy food policies. Youth from 13 CARICOM countries united to advocate for comprehensive school food regulations, including selling and marketing ultra-processed foods. Our voices were loud, clear, and united.

Looking Ahead
By 2030, we envision a Caribbean where all CARICOM countries have implemented comprehensive school nutrition policies regulating the sale and marketing of foods high in salt, sugar and fat. We see you having access to healthier meals, clean drinking water, and plenty of opportunities for physical activity at school. Health education will be woven into your curriculum, empowering you to make informed choices about your well-being. The progress we’ve made so far gives us hope for this healthier future.

As we reflect on the past, we hope you, today’s youth, continue to demand more from your leaders. Remember that every child has the right to the highest attainable standard of health, and governments must protect that right as signatories to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Your bold advocacy is not just essential but integral to our collective success.

In 2024, countries like Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago have either taken steps to regulate school food environments or are in the process of doing so. However, partial measures are not enough. It is critical that comprehensive, evidence-based policies—shaped by your voices—are fully implemented. The consequences of not enforcing these policies will significantly negatively affect the region.

CARICOM leaders took a historic stand in 2007 with the Port of Spain Declaration, demanding urgent action on NCDs. Seventeen years have passed since that declaration—and by the time you read this, 23 years will have passed. The time for talk is over. Now, it is up to our current CARICOM leaders to rise to the challenge, build on the foundations laid by their predecessors, and prioritise our region’s health. Their leadership now will determine the future health of generations to come.

Our Hope for the Future
As you celebrate Caribbean Wellness Day on September 14, 2030, and reflect on this pivotal year of global accountability, we urge you to recognise your power in shaping the health and future of our region. Progress has been made, but setbacks have also occurred. It is up to you to carry the torch forward, advocating for change where it is still needed and ensuring that the health and well-being of Caribbean youth remain a top priority. You are not just the future. You are the present. Your actions and demands matter. You have the right to good health, and with your courage and determination, you can help create a future where every child in the Caribbean has the opportunity to thrive.

With hope for a healthier tomorrow,

Youth Health Advocates of 2024
Simeca Alexander-Williamson, Simone Bishop-Matthews, Ashley Foster Estick, Kaela Gerald, Dorial Quintyne, Offniel Lamont, Danielle Walwyn, Fiona Zhang on behalf of Healthy Caribbean Youth

The post Letter to the Students of 2030: Hope for The Future appeared first on Healthy Caribbean Coalition.

The primary goal of the HCC Communications under the Global Health Advocacy Incubator project remains to tackle childhood obesity and by extension non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through healthy food environments across the Caribbean with a focus on Barbados and Jamaica. This has been achieved through the development and implementation of communication and advocacy campaigns, guided by a strategic plan to reach target audiences including policymakers, the media and lay-persons. Our markers of success have been grounded in regional governments policy readiness and implementation.

The HCC continues to communicate with various target audiences through several channels. These include social media including WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, X formerly known as Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn and digital, including our website, email blasts, RoundUp newsletter, and our webinars. The HCC has engaged both traditional and online media in our efforts to reach our target audiences. The media, being one of our primary audiences we have engaged through our webinars, hang-outs, one-on-one meetings, training sessions, sensitisations and now through the sponsored Caribbean Media Awards.

The Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC) expanded its awards this year, to include a Healthy Nutrition Food Policy Award under two (2) themes; Television and Print for the 35th National Gas Company (NGC) Caribbean Media Awards (CMA) of the Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU). This activity culminated the 55th Caribbean Broadcasting Union’s Annual General Assembly, which took place in Placencia Belize. The Awards recognizes the work of the media produced and published in 2023. Following the criteria, nominations were released in June 2024. Nestled in the Umaya Hotel, the Awards took place on the night of Tuesday August 13th, 2024. The Nation Publishing Company, having coped its first ever CMA, was awarded in the print category and the Barbados Government Information Service (BGIS) emerged the winner under the television themed category. Special mention was given to RJR Gleaner Communications Group (Print Themed Award).

The event was live telecast hosted by Great Belize Productions Limited – Channel 5. Presentations, Trophies and Certificates were made in fifty-five (55) categories. A record number of these – twenty-four (24) were themed categories supported by category sponsors including:

• UNDP CariSECURE2.0
• Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC)
• The Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre
• The Sagicor Financial Company Limited
• The Caribbean Development Bank Basic Needs Trust Fund
• The Nature Conservancy Caribbean Division
• The Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management
• SAEDI Consulting Limited

The organisation with the largest number of wins was RJR Gleaner Communications Group from Jamaica with sixteen (16) awards and four (4) special mentions across its media services. Great Belize Productions – Channel 5 was second with eight (8) wins and two (2) special mentions. Trinidad and Tobago was well represented with Trinidad Express fielding five (5) awards and garnering four (4) special mentions. TTT Limited received four (4) awards and a special mention. The Guardian Group was successful in five (5) categories with two awards for CNC-3; two (2) special mentions for television service and one (1) for the print-arm-Guardian newspaper.

The theme for this year’s Annual General Assembly was the Media and the Environment. This theme, being quite expansive covers key areas of interest of the HCC including the food environment in which a healthy and nutritious environment supported by healthy nutrition food policies allows individuals to grow, live, learn and thrive and climate change; which impacts heavily on the kind of food environment we have at our disposal. Food security relies heavily on and is impacted by climate change.

• The BGIS award – “Grow Green Barbados: Episode 3 – Organic Farming” – Aisha Reid, Mikul Elcock, David Bynoe, Esther Jones,  KathyAnn Husbands
• Nation Publishing Company (Barbados) It’s War – Donna Sealy
• Special Mention: RJR Gleaner Communications Group (Jamaica) – “Hungry Belly Children Can’t Learn” – Andre Williams

The HCC will also sponsor two (2) journalists for the 2024 awards (36th CMA) which has been announced will take place in Barbados in August 2025. This will be promoted at the Healthy Food Policy Virtual Sensitisation for Media Managers, Journalists and Partners in October 2024. The HCC was represented by Communications Officer Sheena Warner-Edwards in Belize, throughout the General Assembly. Participants experienced the culture of Belize through the food and the people. Both the Opening Ceremony and the Awards were streamed from Channel 5across HCCs social media channels.

Here are some photos from the event.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOH3Ow9mg_w

CBU Media Monitoring

• https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/cbu-events/cma/
• https://www.caribroadcastunion.org/2024/06/04/ngc-35th-cbu-caribbean-media-awards-announcement-of-nominees/
• https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/lead-stories/20240817/rjrgleaner-group-continues-caribbean-media-dominance
• https://edition.channel5belize.com/winners-announced-at-record-breaking-35th-caribbean-media-awards/
• https://www.cbc.bb/news/local-news/cbc-cops-regional-media-awards/
• https://emonewsdm.com/sagicor-financial-company-ltd-supports-caribbean-broadcasting-unions-caribbean-media-awards/
• https://www.tv6tnt.com/news/7pmnews/ngc-35th-cbu-caribbean-media-awards/article_ab8b6898-5ab3-11ef-b9a5-9bfe1e50398a.html
• https://www.guardian.co.tt/news/gml-bags-two-cbu-journalism-awards-three-special-mentions-6.2.2082717.e8035f9f03
• https://magneticmediatv.com/2024/08/historic-health-professions-amendment-ordinance-and-regulations-2024-officially-signed-into-law/
• https://climatetrackercaribbean.org/featured/climate-tracker-fellows-shine-at-35th-cbu-awards/
• https://www.ttt.live/cbu-awards-2024/
• https://edition.channel5belize.com/caribbean-journalists-converge-in-belize-for-cbu-agm-media-awards/
• https://caribbean.loopnews.com/content/caribbean-tourism-organization-announces-2024-media-award-winners

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