'Obesity is a serious public health issue' in VI- Health Minister Wheatley
Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) used the occasion to point out the extent of the problem in the Virgin Islands and the need for healthier lifestyles.
"Obesity is a serious public health issue in the Virgin Islands," Hon Wheatley stated.
The Health Minister said more recent data from 2021 highlights the ongoing impact, showing that 8.7% of the population is affected by diabetes. "This only serves to reinforce the strong connection between obesity and chronic diseases."
Tackling Obesity
To reduce obesity and related noncommunicable diseases, the Ministry of Health and Social Development- according to Hon Wheatley- is working on several key areas, including strengthening Healthcare Services by working with the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) to ensure that nutritional counselling is available at the hospital and community settings to help residents make informed dietary decisions.
"Additionally, we are collaborating with the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) to implement the HEARTS and HEARTS-D technical programme, initially within the Public Healthcare System, with plans to expand it further to our colleagues in the Private Sector."
The PAHO HEARTS programme, which stands for “Health Education to Reduce Cardiovascular Risks”, is an initiative aimed to improve cardiovascular health across the Americas.
Hon Wheatley also shared that the Ministry of Health and Social Development, through the Public Health Unit, will also collaborate with food importers and the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries to reduce trans fats and sugars in the food supply, making healthier options more accessible and affordable and ensuring that the public is sufficiently aware.
'Every resident has a role to play'
"In addition, the Ministry of Health and Social Development’s BVI Moves initiative promotes regular exercise, but opportunities extend beyond government programmes. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of public parks, gyms, sports clubs, and recreational spaces to maintain active lifestyles.
Hon Wheatley said every resident of the Territory has a role to play in improving their health.
"Small, consistent changes can have a lasting impact. This can include reducing sugar intake by drinking water instead of juice or soft drinks, moderating carbohydrates, and increasing fibre and essential nutrients by consuming at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily."
Residents are also urged to commit to at least 30 minutes of physical activity, at least four times a week.
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12 Responses to “'Obesity is a serious public health issue' in VI- Health Minister Wheatley”
Got some fat @$$ people walking around thinking its Kool, but their heart, oh my God their heart is big and proud.
They are lazy and sloppy, making excuses for everything. Once you take control of eating habits you will see a more productive lifestyle emerge.
I pray that the spirit of Gluttony will remove itself from our small population and especially the children. The amount of overweight children in the territory is alarming!!!