The impact of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer on Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) like Antigua and Barbuda is significant, both in terms of human lives and economic costs.

Sir Molwyn Joseph, the Health Minister, shared concerning data on the prevalence of these diseases in the region during a recent HEARTS Initiative Implementation Sensitization and Training Workshop.

This initiative, led by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in collaboration with local ministries of health, aims to address the disproportionate risk of premature death from NCDs and the high burden of mental health challenges faced by people living in SIDS.

Sir Molwyn highlighted discussions at the SIDS4 conference, where global attention and investment to achieve progress on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target 3.4—”Reduce by one-third premature mortality from NCDs through prevention and treatment, and promote mental health and well-being”—were emphasized.

Globally, NCDs account for 41 million deaths annually, with more than 15 million occurring in individuals aged 30 to 69.

A number of other speakers formed part of the workshop including Vice Chancellor of UWI Professor Robinson

The majority of these deaths are attributed to cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, respiratory diseases, and cancers, and a significant portion occurs in low- and middle-income countries.

The vulnerability of SIDS populations to premature death from NCDs was underscored, with Sir Molwyn stressing the need for prioritized investment in health infrastructure, capacity building, research and development, and access to essential medicines and technologies to effectively prevent and manage NCDs.