CHARLESTOWN, Nevis – MEMORIAL Square in downtown Charlestown was a hive of activity yesterday (Sept. 10) when the Department of Health held its Wellness Fair as a part of Caribbean Wellness Month 2009.
Passersby, attracted by the tents and tables dotting the square, stopped and were invited to test their blood pressure, glucose levels, weight and height, receive information on breast care by the Pink Lily Foundation and obtain dietary counseling and HIV/AIDS testing.
Minister of Health, Hon. Hensley Daniel, was present in the square and told reporters that the aim of the fair was to promote preventative medicine so that illness would take a back seat.
According to the Minister, the island is doing reasonably well in that area, as evidenced by the low levels of hospitalization, but he would like the public to become even more sensitive to their own health. He noted that healthcare can drain the island’s budget, as many things hinge on proper health.
“If you are in good health you can work extra hours, you can do overtime…so what we want to do here for the month is zoom in on health…and all the various challenges that people face, and in time we will see the results.”
Daniel continued: “What we are doing is to anchor our strategies for health and prevention, and the entire month of activities is geared towards prevention because if we save the health dollars, we can then invest them more strategically.”
The minister pointed out that there are a number of challenges related to cancer, diabetes, hypertension, asthma and HIV/AIDS that can be prevented.
“What we are seeking to do during the month is raise awareness and bring society to the point where it recognizes that its health is its wealth.”
Wellness Month activities continue today (Sept. 11) with a Wellness Walk from the Old Hospital Road area to Grove Park.
