Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has issued a stark warning to global leaders, highlighting the escalating threat of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the Caribbean. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, Browne emphasized that NCDs—such as hypertension, diabetes, and cancer—are responsible for a staggering 75% of all deaths in the region. He described the situation as a “silent global health crisis” that demands immediate and coordinated international action. Browne stressed that NCDs are now the leading cause of mortality worldwide and should be prioritized with the same urgency as infectious diseases. He underscored the profound impact of these illnesses on families, economies, and healthcare systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, which bear a disproportionate burden. The Prime Minister called for increased investment in prevention, early detection, and equitable access to treatment, arguing that chronic illnesses divert critical resources from development initiatives. Browne also linked the NCD crisis to mental health, advocating for its recognition as a human right and an integral component of sustainable development. He urged governments to allocate more funding to mental wellness and NCD prevention, warning that without intervention, the social and economic costs will continue to escalate. His remarks underscored the Caribbean’s efforts to elevate health issues on the global agenda, as the region contends with aging populations, dietary changes, and limited capacity to address lifestyle-related diseases.
Hypertension, Diabetes and Cancer Drive 75% of Caribbean Deaths, PM Warns
