ROADTOWN Tortola BVI, September 7th, 2011  – The BVI will join its Caribbean counterparts in observing Caribbean Wellness Day on Saturday, September, 10, an occasion where individuals of all ages are encouraged to become engaged in activities to promote and sustain healthy lifestyles.

In a statement delivered during last Tuesday’s sitting of the House of Assembly, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Social Development, Honourable Dancia Penn, OBE, QC reported that the campaign is to build awareness of the importance of achieving small, but realistic health oriented goals that can be maintained beyond Caribbean Wellness Day.

These include eating healthier foods, advocating for smoke free environments, getting regular exercise, reducing stress and having regular health checks - health practices that can be achieved through consistent, gentle practice, rather than drastic unsustainable activity.

Honourable Penn stated, “Over the years, under the theme “Love That Body”, communities have become increasingly creative in their participation.

This year, several district communities on Tortola, as well as on the Sister Islands of Jost Van Dyke and Anegada will be hosting events. Members of one community will participate in a Tri-ath-lon, while others will be hosting a healthy cookout competition and aerobic exercise demonstrations.”

Honourable Penn also reported that Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases such as diabetes, cancers, respiratory diseases and heart disease are the leading cause of deaths in the region. She noted that all of these conditions are lifestyle related and largely can be prevented.

Local efforts to observe this year’s Caribbean Wellness Day are being spearheaded by the Coordinator of Health Promotion Services in the Ministry of Health and Social Development, Ms. Ivy George.

The Ministry also provides support and encouragement to communities to organise various events such as walks, health educational sessions, exercise demonstrations and cooking demonstrations showcasing nutritional options for healthier meals.

“Improving the health of our people requires personal responsibility, as well as a commitment from each of us as leaders, and as individuals, to work together to create an environment that is conducive to, and supports healthy living,” said Honourable Penn.

The Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Social Development encourages all members of the community throughout the Territory to participate in the activities planned for Caribbean Wellness Day, and other activities that are planned throughout the year.

This is the fifth year that the Territory will be participating in the observance of Caribbean Wellness Day. For more information on this year’s activities, please contact the Coordinator of Health Promotion Services, Ms. Ivy George at 468-3701 extension 3137.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development endeavours to provide leadership that promotes health, social well being and a safe environment.

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