Antigua and Barbuda is confronting a significant public health challenge as non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including obesity, cancer, and cardiovascular ailments, continue to rise.
In his Throne Speech, Governor General Sir Rodney Williams emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing this crisis head-on and urged citizens to take proactive steps to improve their health.
Speaking on the issue, Sir Rodney Williams stated, “It is said that the health of a nation is the wealth of a nation—a globally accepted truth. A sick nation is unlikely to be a wealthy nation, and conversely, a healthy nation is a wealthy nation.” His remarks set the tone for the government’s efforts to combat the growing prevalence of NCDs through a combination of healthcare advancements and public education.
The Governor General highlighted alarming statistics, revealing that “in 2022, it was estimated that 62% of the adult population in Antigua and Barbuda was obese or overweight.” He attributed this trend to poor dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, and contributing factors such as alcohol consumption and insufficient exercise. “Diet and exercise are among the strategies doctors recommend to prevent heart attacks and other ailments in the first place. My government encourages all to get moving,” Sir Rodney added, underscoring the importance of lifestyle changes.
Among the measures announced, the government plans to resuscitate the Cancer Centre to provide crucial services to those battling the disease. Additionally, efforts are underway to expand dialysis services at the old Holberton Hospital to accommodate more patients suffering from kidney-related illnesses. Sir Rodney also detailed plans to establish a cardiology treatment center at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, which will offer specialized care for those afflicted by heart conditions caused by clogged or narrowing arteries. “The machines and the medical experts will help to save the lives of those who are afflicted,” he said.
Acknowledging the role of international collaboration, Sir Rodney expressed gratitude to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) for their assistance in improving the nation’s healthcare infrastructure. “We want to say thank you to PAHO, WHO, and the Medical Benefits Scheme for their unwavering support,” he said.
The government is also prioritizing public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the dangers of unhealthy habits. These campaigns aim to instill a culture of healthy living by encouraging balanced nutrition and increased physical activity. “My government’s campaign to address the non-communicable diseases that plague our people has been built around public announcements that raise the consciousness of the population,” Sir Rodney remarked.
The Governor General’s message was clear: Antigua and Barbuda’s health crisis demands urgent action, not just from the government but from every citizen. “Leadership matters,” Sir Rodney concluded, urging the nation to embrace a healthier lifestyle as part of a broader strategy to build a more prosperous and resilient society.
With these initiatives, Antigua and Barbuda is poised to take significant strides in improving public health, ensuring that the well-being of its people aligns with the nation’s vision of sustainable development.
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Too many Syrian restaurants have invaded our villages ,so no longer can you find a local restaurant selling fungi and fish.so wat do u expect.all the youths are eating today is chicken and chips.
To many pizzas, frys ,fry chicken in antigua right now
The big talk is health and too much obesity especially in children. Still the government gives all these Syrian businessmen warrants to bring in chips and snacks and all kinds of unhealthy foods. The children carry these to school for lunch and eat the same things when they come home from school.
Throw wud for your government, GG. Not the people.
Joan and miss Knight can tell us their secret to healthy weight and sexy bodies
Ohhh Jesus Christ u all seriously complaining about Syrian restaurants??? U don’t have to eat shawarma, Pizza, Chicken and Fries everyday…U can have it once a week but some of y’all living on it…That ain’t the fault of the Middle Eastern man..
You don’t have to eat the junk, and especially not regularly. We should support our local farmers, and more importantly, try to grow a little something for ourselves. Food additives and preservatives are also a major problem. For example, the US on a whole are sicker than so-called developing countries. Sickness is an industry there and well-placed persons will promote both bad eating and what I call food grade poisons. The more we can decouple ourselves from this modern way of food production, the better. The things you buy in the store spoil in the fridge while the one grown in your yard stays fresh on the counter