“65% of the representative sample of Saint Lucians, aged 18 - 69 years, were classified as being overweight or obese, while 37.3%, without a prior diagnosis of hypertension had raised blood pressure. These chronic diseases lead to disability and death for those we love”, Doctor Cyril disclosed in an announcement to the public.

Doctor Cyril went on to specify the different initiatives taken by the Ministry of Health in improving the overall health of citizens. According to her, in 2019, Saint Lucia launched an initiative to reduce strokes and heart attacks through blood pressure control. Similarly, in 2022, the “Saint Lucia Moves” initiative was launched to increase physical activity and healthy eating within the population. This year, the Ministry has partnered with the Republic of Taiwan to improve diabetes prevention. In addition, the Ministry has made medicine and laboratory services free of charge for citizens with hypertension and diabetes.

 “The Ministry [of Health] has sought to target the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases and the risk factors through various programmes and interventions.”

According to Doctor Cyril, starting August 7th, 2023, operations at the Wellness Centres across the island will be streamlined. These streamlined operations will include an Internal Medicine Specialist, who will treat patients with chronic diseases.