With noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) continuing to be a major cause of death in St. Kitts and Nevis, Minister of Health, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, has urged health practitioners, non-governmental organisations, and the private sector to collaborate in scaling up efforts to combat the growing NCD crisis.
In a speech marking the Global Week of Action on Noncommunicable Diseases, observed from October 15-22, 2024, under the theme “The Time to Lead is Now,” Dr. Drew highlighted the severity of the NCD challenge in the Federation. He pointed out that diabetes, hypertension, and their complications are the leading causes of illness, with NCDs responsible for over 80 percent of deaths in St. Kitts and Nevis between 2017 and 2021.
“These diseases are our biggest public health problem, and the time to lead is now!” declared Prime Minister Dr. Drew. “As a physician, Minister of Health, and Prime Minister, I am convinced that we must accelerate our response to NCDs immediately. The Ministry of Health and the government are fully committed, investing resources and taking a comprehensive approach to tackle this issue head-on.”
The government’s strategy to combat NCDs includes prevention, early detection, and aggressive management using evidence-based treatments aimed at reducing severe complications like strokes and heart attacks. This response includes the rollout of the Global HEARTS Programme across health centers in the Federation, focused on preventing and controlling hypertension, diabetes, and related complications.
Additionally, the government continues to promote the SKN Moves initiative and has certified the JNF General Hospital as a Baby-Friendly Hospital under the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI). The BFHI encourages exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and continued breastfeeding for two years, which has been proven to reduce the risk of developing NCDs later in life.
Prime Minister Dr. Drew emphasised that these interventions are critical, particularly as the country’s population ages, increasing the need for stronger community-based health services and primary care. He also outlined plans to expand partnerships with local NGOs, the private sector, and regional partners to intensify efforts in the fight against NCDs.
“The fight against NCDs is real and getting worse because our population is ageing,” said Dr. Drew. “We must act now to prevent and control these diseases and improve the health of our nation.”
The Ministry of Health will use the Global Week for Action on NCDs to reinforce the importance of prevention and management at every level, continuing to push for stronger interventions across the Federation.
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