In a powerful message delivered by Dr. Lisa Indar, Acting Executive Director of CARPHA, Caribbean Wellness Day 2024 has been underscored as a crucial regional event aimed at combating the growing epidemic of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the Caribbean. This year, the theme is “Power Through Collective Action,” and the celebration will take place on Saturday, September 14th, 2024. The message from Dr. Indar highlights the importance of individual and collective efforts to address the alarming impact of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes on the region’s health, economy, and overall development.
As Dr. Indar mentions, “Good health is our right, and your health is your wealth,” a message that resonates deeply with the current health challenges facing the Caribbean. It is no secret that the region bears the highest burden of NCDs among developing nations in the Americas, with these chronic diseases responsible for more than 70% of deaths in the region. While the statistics are stark, there is hope, and Caribbean Wellness Day is a powerful reminder that together, we can combat this epidemic.
A Day of Collective Action for Health
Caribbean Wellness Day was established in 2007 by the heads of government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) as a response to the growing NCD crisis. Celebrated on the second Saturday of September, the day serves as a call to action for governments, organizations, communities, and individuals to come together in a united effort to promote healthy lifestyles, raise awareness, and advocate for policy changes that can curb the rising rates of chronic disease.
Dr. Indar emphasized the need for a whole-of-society approach, which includes every sector of society—from government and private organizations to community-based and faith-based groups. This collaboration is essential to creating environments where healthy choices are easier to make, and where policies support health and wellness for all.
A Call for Health Rights
For Caribbean Wellness Day 2024, the sub-theme “Good Health is Our Right” speaks to the need for transparency and accessibility in promoting healthier lifestyles. As Dr. Indar points out, “It is our right to have transparency in food labeling,” giving consumers clear information about ingredients that may negatively impact health, such as high levels of sugar, salt, and fats.
This year’s theme calls for healthier food options that are affordable, accessible, and actively promoted. It also emphasizes the need for accurate information about the benefits of healthy eating, the importance of limiting screen time, increasing physical activity, and encouraging wellness programs in schools and workplaces. These initiatives reflect a collective effort to build healthier communities across the Caribbean.
A Message of Resilience and Unity
The Caribbean people are known for their resilience, and Caribbean Wellness Day symbolizes that strength. In her message, Dr. Indar reminds us that Caribbean Wellness Day is not just a day—it is a symbol of our collective resolve to fight the epidemic of chronic diseases through unity, cooperation, and action.
At Medical Professionals on a Mission (MPOM), we echo this call to action. While we provide critical healthcare and referral services to those in need, we recognize that promoting health and wellness is a shared responsibility. Together, we can make a lasting impact in reducing the burden of NCDs across the Caribbean.
Join Us in the Fight for Health
On Caribbean Wellness Day 2024, we urge you to join the fight against NCDs. Whether through advocating for better policies, raising awareness in your community, or simply making healthier choices in your own life, every action counts. As Dr. Indar states, “Each and every one of us not only deserves good health—it is our wealth, it is our right.”
Let’s unite to make health and wellness a priority for all.
