ROADTOWN Tortola BVI, March 7th, 2012 – Women in the Territory will have an opportunity to learn more about preventative care in women’s health as the Office of Gender Affairs host its first International Women’s Day Health Fair to mark International Women’s Day on Thursday, March 8, under the local theme “Connecting Girls; Inspiring Futures”.
Speaking with the Department of Information and Public Relations, Gender Affairs Coordinator, Ms. Lorolie Connor shared that the concept of the women’s health fair is to underscore the importance of women’s health and preventative care.
“Women tend to take care of others but not themselves. This health fair is designed to keep women’s health issues at the forefront of our minds and to remind women of the importance of preventative care,” said Ms. Connor.
The Gender Affairs Coordinator stated that the office is encouraging women to have regular health screenings such as HIV tests and blood pressure checks, as well as mammograms, especially if a woman is over 40 years. Furthermore, she noted that young women should also pay special attention to their health and nutritional needs, since diabetes is prevalent among young persons.
A number of governmental and non-governmental agencies will be participating in the International Women’s Day Health Fair, which will be held at the Central Administration Building from 10am to 3:30pm.
These agencies include the National AIDS Programme, Bless Hands Spa, the BVI Diabetes Association, the BVI Cancer Society, the Sandy Lane Centre and others.
Throughout March, the Office of Gender Affairs will host a variety of other activities to commemorate International Women’s Day.
These include a workshop for public officers on Sexual Harassment and HIV/AIDS in the Workplace; a workshop on Budget Management in collaboration with Scotia Bank on March 10; training in the use of the Domestic Violence Protocol for health care workers, in collaboration with the BVI Health Services Authority; and an Essay Competition for primary, secondary and tertiary school students.
International Women’s Day is observed on March 8 every year by the United Nations. In different regions, the focus ranges from general celebration of respect, appreciation and love towards women, to a celebration for women's economic, political and social achievements.
For more information on the activities planned to mark International Women’s Day in the Virgin Islands, telephone the Office of Gender Affairs at 468-3701, extensions 2234, 2236 or 3415.
The Office of Gender Affairs of the Ministry of Health and Social Development is charged with the responsibility of raising awareness on women’s issues and implementing policies related to gender equality and equity.
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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