In recognition of World health Day being observed today, Programme Manager, Health Sector Development at the CARICOM Secretariat , Dr. Rudolph Cummings, shared the following sentiments on diabetes and non-communicable diseases:

Whilst the health gains of our Region have contributed significantly to increased life expectancy, these are now under severe threats from Non-Communicable Diseases. The recently completed study by the University of the West Indies in assessing the Port-of-Spain Declaration seven years on clearly demonstrates that there remains a lot to be done in terms of primary prevention.

The need for more active public policy positions in relation to alcohol and tobacco use and the cultivation of more beneficial dietary and exercise practices cannot be overstated. There is a clear need to reinforce the whole of government approach to this health problem. The threat to sustainability of adequately financed health service is ever present.

The new culture of tobacco free spaces and limitation to public alcohol use warrant inculcation from childhood. The use of diets with a preponderance of fruit and vegetables is needed. Creation of physical facilities in schools for exercise and reorientation of the philosophy of school feeding ought to be clear aims of programmes meant to enhance the health of our young.

If the obesity problems in our society are not reduced, it can lead to productivity decline and increased medical costs but also to the resultant diabetes and hypertension accruing from this problem. Now is the time to act. There needs to be a recognition of the health burden which our societies will eventually face.

The focus of World Health Day this year is on diabetes, the fourth leading cause of death in the Americas.