Ministry of Health & Wellness, Barbados

23/06/2026

The cost of treating non-communicable diseases now ranges from $325 million to $825 million annually, as health officials continue to see rising rates of these illnesses across the island.

This was revealed today as Government advanced its fight against NCDs through discussions with the local food industry and other stakeholders to explore ways of providing healthier options for Barbadians.

Senior Medical Officer of Health in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Dr Kimberley Phillips, explained that illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension are affecting the island at rates above the global average.

She was speaking during an engagement with the food industry on healthier food environments at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre.

Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael, said the discussions were aimed at ensuring products are more nutritious and reducing the use of harmful ingredients in food. He noted that this is crucial to reducing Government expenditure on illness, allowing funds to be allocated elsewhere.

𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁 𝘄𝘄𝘄.𝗰𝗯𝗰.𝗯𝗯 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲.

21/06/2026

Today is a special day. To all of the males who play a major role in the lives of children across including in various big brother programmes, we want to wish you a Happy Father's Day! Your sacrifices do not go unchecked.

20/06/2026

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhoea can affect anyone who is sexually active.

When it comes to your health, don't play! My health is in my hands and I choose to protect it!

Stay on top of your game. Get tested! Get treated! Protect your health!

For more information, visit your nearest polyclinic for testing or call 536-3315.

20/06/2026

"We must become champions of change in our communities and workplaces..."

Speaking at the Health & Wellness Conference, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health & Wellness, Davidson Ishmael, reminded us that addressing non-communicable diseases is not just a healthcare issue, it is a national responsibility.

Healthy workplaces, healthier communities, and better health outcomes begin with the choices we make every day.

📸 Quote and conference coverage by reporting from Barbados TODAY.

19/06/2026

19/06/2026

Congenital syphilis is preventable, yet it can have life-changing consequences for babies if left untreated during pregnancy.
Early antenatal care, routine testing, and timely treatment can protect both mother and child.
All pregnant women should be tested for syphilis at their first antenatal visit and again in the third trimester.
If you are pregnant, or planning to become pregnant, get tested at your nearest polyclinic or speak with your healthcare provider about syphilis testing.

18/06/2026

FREE health checks. FREE trims. FREE massages. 👀🔥

We are officially 1 DAY AWAY from our 2nd Community Pop-Up at the Jackie Opel Amphitheater (General Post Office, Cheapside), and the energy is building!

See any of your favorite local brands on the flyer? We’ve teamed up with some amazing partners to bring you the best in health, wellness, and lifestyle.

All are welcome, so make sure you're there tomorrow!

18/06/2026

The government is urging businesses and community groups to take a more active role in tackling non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which now account for 83 per cent of adult deaths in Barbados, while costing the country hundreds of millions of dollars each year, health minister Davidson Ishmael said Wednesday.

📸: File Photo

Continue reading more here: https://bit.ly/3QnWOSc

18/06/2026

18/06/2026