The Caribbean is known for its turquoise waters, rich culture, and vibrant spirit, but behind the beauty lies a health crisis that too often goes unnoticed. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease are responsible for over 75% of deaths in the region. These are not just statistics—they represent mothers, fathers, teachers, and neighbors whose lives are cut short by preventable conditions.
Understanding the Crisis
According to the World Bank, the rise in NCDs across Caribbean nations is driven by multiple factors:
- Lack of early screening and consistent primary care
- Increasing rates of obesity, poor nutrition, and sedentary lifestyles
- Limited access to affordable medication and diagnostics
- Cultural stigma and distrust in formal health systems
What MPOM Is Doing
At Medical Professionals on a Mission (MPOM), we take a grassroots approach to tackling these issues. Our healthcare teams travel across the Caribbean—often into remote and underserved communities—to bring direct services where they are needed most.
🩺 Key Interventions Include:
- Blood pressure and glucose screenings
- Chronic disease education workshops
- Mobile clinics with medication distribution
- Women’s health services and cervical screenings
- Faith-based outreach through churches and community groups
Traditional Healing + Modern Medicine
In Caribbean households, herbal remedies like cerasee, soursop, and ginger tea are staples passed down for generations. MPOM doesn’t dismiss these traditions—we educate communities on how to safely integrate traditional remedies with modern care. For example, while cerasee may help with blood sugar regulation, overuse can lead to liver issues.
Why This Work Matters
Unchecked hypertension and diabetes lead to kidney failure, amputations, stroke, and premature death. But it doesn’t have to be this way. With the right education, tools, and trust, these conditions are preventable and manageable.
We believe that healthcare access should not be determined by geography or income. Whether through free screenings, medication donations, or volunteer-led clinics, MPOM is helping Caribbean communities move from crisis to care.
How You Can Help
- 💙 Volunteer your skills (medical or non-medical)
- 📦 Donate medical supplies
- 🧭 Sponsor a clinic in your island of choice
- 🗣️ Share our mission with others
Together, we can rewrite the health story of the Caribbean—one island, one village, one person at a time.
