Diabetes rates in Antigua and Barbuda are alarmingly high, with 13% of the population affected.
Globally, diabetes prevalence in North America and the Caribbean was 13.3% in 2019 and is projected to rise to 15% by 2045. Health experts are sounding the alarm, especially as Antigua and Barbuda’s rate is already at 13%.
Dr. Monica Osborne Stevens expressed concern during a recent House Calls program on TV. “13% is high for Antigua alone,” she said. “What will the numbers look like in 2045 if we don’t change?”
She pointed to unhealthy lifestyle habits, particularly poor eating practices, as key contributors to the growing problem.
Public Health Nutritionist Charity Dublin also emphasized the need for immediate action, stressing the impact of a sedentary lifestyle. “If we don’t act now, we’re already in trouble,” she warned. Dublin also called for stronger health policies, pointing out that other regions have made strides with initiatives like sugar-sweetened beverage taxes and school nutrition programs.
In the Caribbean, she noted, we’re lagging behind in adopting such policies to protect public health.
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