Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • Health ministry to strengthen support for women experiencing menopause

    Health ministry to strengthen support for women experiencing menopause

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican Ministry of Health and Wellness has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to enhance support for women navigating perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. The program focuses on expanding public education, improving access to healthcare services, and establishing a structured treatment framework at the primary healthcare level. Dr. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health and Wellness, emphasized the need to address the often-neglected impact of menopause on women’s quality of life. He stated, ‘For too long, menopause has been treated as a taboo subject. We are committed to changing this narrative by ensuring every woman, regardless of location, has access to information, care, and support.’

    Data from the Mona Ageing and Wellness Centre at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, reveals that Jamaica is home to approximately 130,000 menopausal women, 76,200 perimenopausal women, and 75,000 postmenopausal women. Menopause, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55, marks the end of menstruation and can result from natural processes or medical interventions such as chemotherapy. Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading to menopause, can span several years and significantly impact physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Globally, women over 50 represented 26% of all women and girls in 2021, up from 22% a decade earlier. Symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats can persist for up to a decade post-menopause.

    Dr. Tufton outlined the ministry’s life stage approach, which includes public education campaigns, routine physician examinations, and accessible advice at primary care facilities. He also addressed concerns about the limited availability of medications to alleviate symptoms, assuring that efforts are underway to bridge this gap. ‘We are actively exploring solutions to ensure women have access to necessary medications,’ he affirmed. Additionally, the initiative prioritizes mental health support, encouraging women to utilize counselling services or contact the mental health hotline at 888-NEW-LIFE (888-639-5433).

    Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie, Chief Medical Officer, urged women experiencing symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flashes, anxiety, or sleep disturbances to seek assistance at their nearest health center or consult a healthcare provider. This initiative marks a significant step toward empowering Jamaican women through comprehensive care and support during this critical life stage.

  • Death of bullied nine-year-old shakes France

    Death of bullied nine-year-old shakes France

    A heartbreaking incident unfolded in Sarreguemines, northeastern France, as a nine-year-old girl was discovered dead in her home over the weekend. Authorities, including prosecutors and police sources, have indicated that the tragedy likely resulted from suicide, following persistent bullying. The young girl’s body was found on Saturday, prompting an outpouring of grief and calls for action against school harassment. Former Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, who previously served as education minister and founded an association to combat bullying, expressed his condolences on social media platform X. He described bullying as a ‘scourge’ and a ‘slow poison’ that can lead to devastating outcomes. Regional education officials expressed deep shock over the incident, while the public prosecutor’s office confirmed an ongoing investigation, suggesting the act appeared to be voluntary. Police sources revealed that the girl had left a letter for her family. Her mother disclosed that the child had been subjected to relentless bullying by her primary school classmates, who mocked her for being overweight. The mother also shared that her daughter had previously mentioned suicidal thoughts. On Monday morning, white roses adorned the school’s railings as a poignant tribute. A family acquaintance, speaking anonymously, claimed that the school had been informed about the bullying but failed to intervene effectively. Abnor, a nine-year-old classmate, recounted how the girl was bullied on her way home, describing her as cheerful in class but often subjected to insults. ‘It’s not nice,’ he said. ‘We’re in school to learn, to get a good job, to earn money. It’s not a place for bullying—not here nor anywhere else in the world.’ The incident has reignited urgent discussions about the need for stronger anti-bullying measures in schools.

  • Tufton says CRH rehabilitation must be completed before September 2026

    Tufton says CRH rehabilitation must be completed before September 2026

    MONTEGO BAY, St James — Dr Christopher Tufton, Jamaica’s Minister of Health and Wellness, has emphasized the urgent need to complete the long-awaited rehabilitation of Cornwall Regional Hospital (CRH) by September 2024. Speaking at a press conference held at S Hotel in Montego Bay on Thursday, Tufton stressed the importance of meeting this deadline, even if it requires intensified efforts from the project team. ‘My position is clear: we must deliver on time. While a slight delay of a month or two might be unavoidable, we cannot afford significant postponements,’ he stated. The minister acknowledged the temptation to extend timelines for perfection but underscored the necessity of accountability among contractors and project leaders to ensure timely and budget-compliant completion. The CRH, a Type A facility, has been undergoing extensive renovations since 2017 due to structural and air quality concerns. Tufton expressed satisfaction with the ongoing work, highlighting progress in critical areas such as the installation of the central air conditioning system, operating theatres, and fire suppression systems. ‘The work is evident when you visit the site. It’s now about accelerating the pace to meet the deadline,’ he remarked. The minister also shifted his focus from providing periodic media updates to achieving the ultimate goal of project completion. ‘I’m no longer interested in showcasing the progress to the media. My priority is to cut the ribbon and open the hospital,’ he concluded.

  • ‘Lady Camille’ reels in victory at Oracabessa Bay Marlin Tournament

    ‘Lady Camille’ reels in victory at Oracabessa Bay Marlin Tournament

    In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Frenchly Bryan, affectionately known as Kush, alongside his team of fishermen from Mason Hall, Oracabessa, St Mary, emerged victorious at the 21st Oracabessa Bay Marlin Tournament. The event, held at the Oracabessa Bay Fishing Village on Sunday, saw over 60 boats vying for the prestigious title. Bryan and his team set sail at 6:00 am aboard their vessel, ‘Lady Camille,’ and returned triumphantly after 4:00 pm with the heaviest marlin of the day, weighing an impressive 127 pounds. Bryan, who had previously come close to winning in Portland, expressed his elation, ‘It’s a happy moment for me. We faced challenges, but we persevered and got the big catch.’ The team’s victory earned them $100,000, a Yahama boat engine valued at $500,000, and other sponsored prizes. The event, conceptualized in 1995 by Chris Blackwell of the Golden Eye Foundation and the Oracabessa Fisheries Association, continues to be a highlight for fishermen across the island, offering not only glory but also substantial rewards. Tajhema Williams, a member of the winning team, shared her excitement, ‘It was a nice experience, especially when we got the big catch. We’re looking forward to next year.’ The tournament, supported by major sponsors like the Tourism Enhancement Fund, Yamaha, and Grace Foods, was a resounding success, drawing scores of residents from Oracabessa and surrounding communities. Travis Graham, Executive Director of the Golden Eye Foundation, praised the event’s seamless execution, ‘This event has been incident-free over the years, and I want to thank the people of Oracabessa for another great event.’ The day concluded with celebrations as supporters gathered at the shore, eagerly anticipating the fishermen’s return with their prized marlin catches.

  • Portmore outscore Cavalier 4-2 as top three win in JPL

    Portmore outscore Cavalier 4-2 as top three win in JPL

    The eighth round of the Jamaica Premier League, played under challenging rainy conditions, saw the top three teams solidify their dominance with decisive victories. Montego Bay United, led by Jourdain Fletcher’s double, secured a 2-0 win against Molynes United, extending their winning streak to five games and outscoring their opponents 15-0 in the process. Fletcher’s goals in the 45th and 58th minutes brought his tally to five, tying him with teammate Dwight Miekle for the league’s top scorer. Meanwhile, Racing United ended a three-game goal drought with a commanding 3-0 victory over Spanish Town Police FC, who played the entire second half with 10 men after Anil Ferguson’s red card. Portmore United also bounced back from consecutive draws, overcoming defending champions Cavalier 4-2 in a thrilling match that featured a brace from Ronaldo Robinson. Elsewhere, Mt Pleasant FA climbed to ninth place with a 3-1 win over Chapelton Maroons, while Tivoli Gardens snapped a four-game winless streak with a 2-1 comeback victory against Harbour View. The round also saw a dramatic 0-0 draw between Treasure Beach and Waterhouse FC, where three penalties were missed, and the Arnett Gardens vs. Dunbeholden FC match was postponed due to weather conditions.

  • The No Man’s Land challenge

    The No Man’s Land challenge

    The Buccoo Marine Park and No Man’s Land in Tobago face mounting environmental challenges, with a recent incident on October 5 underscoring the urgent need for stricter enforcement of ecological preservation measures. A party boat sank in the shallow waters off No Man’s Land, highlighting the fragility of this treasured ecosystem. This secluded area, accessible primarily by boat, is a Ramsar-listed Wetland of International Importance, renowned for its unique blend of freshwater and saltwater habitats. Since the 1990s, it has become a popular destination for glass-bottom boat tours, barbeques, and festivities. However, the delicate ecology of No Man’s Land is gradually degrading due to unchecked tourism and a lack of formal regulations. Currently, beach use is governed by an informal gentleman’s agreement among visitors, but recent violent incidents, including a stabbing in August 2024 and a bloody brawl in July, have shaken this sense of shared responsibility. Concerned for client safety, reef tour operators are increasingly omitting No Man’s Land from their itineraries. Unlike natural threats such as coral bleaching or lionfish invasions, the enforcement of a code of practice among tour operators falls within the Tobago House of Assembly’s (THA) jurisdiction. To preserve the sanctity of this peaceful location amidst Tobago’s growing tourism industry, collaboration among marine experts, tour operators, and visitors is essential. A sustainable approach, focused on conservation and mindful use of this fragile ecosystem, must be prioritized.

  • EOC supports Jaipur Foot Centre in Trinidad and Tobago: Walking toward equality

    EOC supports Jaipur Foot Centre in Trinidad and Tobago: Walking toward equality

    In a landmark move toward social justice and inclusion, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has announced the establishment of a Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment Centre in Trinidad and Tobago (TT). This initiative, unveiled during a ceremony at the Diplomatic Centre in St. Ann’s on October 3, underscores the government’s commitment to restoring independence and dignity to individuals with disabilities. The Jaipur Foot Organisation, renowned globally for its cost-effective and innovative prosthetic solutions, has already transformed millions of lives worldwide. By bringing this model to TT, the nation takes a significant step toward ensuring free, world-class prosthetic services for its citizens. This project transcends healthcare, embodying a broader vision of equity and social participation. It aligns with the Equal Opportunity Commission’s (EOC) mandate to combat discrimination and promote equal opportunities for all, particularly for those with disabilities, who are protected under the Equal Opportunity Act. The centre will not only provide medical support but also empower individuals to rejoin the workforce, pursue education, and engage fully in their communities. The initiative’s far-reaching benefits include economic empowerment, emotional well-being, and national development, as restored mobility enables individuals to contribute meaningfully to society. The project is a testament to international collaboration, with the TT government partnering with India’s government and the Jaipur Foot Organisation. This partnership emphasizes sustainability through knowledge transfer and local capacity building. The EOC lauds this effort as part of a broader national strategy to foster inclusion, urging employers and educational institutions to embrace accessibility and diversity. The establishment of the Jaipur Foot Centre is a moral and national achievement, reflecting TT’s commitment to treating its most vulnerable members with dignity and respect. It serves as a reminder that investing in people’s potential strengthens the nation’s future. The EOC encourages citizens to celebrate this progress while continuing to address challenges to ensure every individual in TT has the opportunity to thrive.

  • Caribbean cryptocurrency concerns

    Caribbean cryptocurrency concerns

    At a recent webinar on October 2, hosted by the Caribbean Digital Finance Alliance (CDFA), fintech professionals across the Caribbean convened to discuss the pressing issue of cryptocurrency regulation. The event, set to formally launch in November, was prompted by Trinidad and Tobago’s (TT) recent proposal to ban virtual assets, sparking a broader regional dialogue on the matter. Moderator Dennis Augustine emphasized that the discussion aimed to explore fundamental policy questions rather than critique specific legislation. He posed a critical question: Should the Caribbean adopt a cautious approach to virtual assets, or is outright prohibition the more prudent stance? Mark Pereira of ZLabs highlighted TT’s forex constraints, noting that the Central Bank’s opaque distribution of US dollars has led individuals to seek alternative methods, including cryptocurrency. Pereira advocated for regulated use of stablecoins to improve forex accessibility. Annie Bertrand of the CDFA underscored the influence of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in shaping regional financial compliance, while Prof Louis De Koker warned against the pitfalls of both pausing and banning virtual assets. Pereira proposed a public-private partnership framework, suggesting a regulatory sandbox to allow the Central Bank to test its systems. He emphasized that collaboration between the government and private sector could lead to a progressive virtual asset bill. De Koker echoed this sentiment, highlighting the private sector’s market insights as invaluable to regulators. With the global crypto market now valued at $4 trillion, the consensus was clear: all countries must adapt to this evolving financial landscape.

  • Furillo Narine wants to end breast cancer stigma: ‘Men can get this too’

    Furillo Narine wants to end breast cancer stigma: ‘Men can get this too’

    Furillo Narine, a 39-year-old from Couva, Trinidad, never imagined that a small lump in his chest would change his life forever. Initially dismissing it as insignificant, it was only after a playful moment with his son and his wife’s insistence that he sought medical advice. In August 2022, Narine was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer, a condition he didn’t believe could affect men. His disbelief turned to shock when the diagnosis escalated to stage 3A after the cancer spread to his lymph nodes. Undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and hormone therapy, Narine’s battle was grueling. The emotional toll of losing his hair and a near-fatal sepsis episode during his final chemotherapy session marked the darkest moments of his journey. Yet, through it all, his wife Joanne Sinanansingh remained his pillar of strength. Post-recovery, Narine left his corporate career to start his own business, The Mac Man TT, focusing on online sales and tech support. More importantly, he prioritized his health and family, reclaiming precious moments with his loved ones. Narine now uses his story to raise awareness that breast cancer is not exclusive to women, urging men to seek medical attention if they notice unusual symptoms. His journey is a testament to resilience, love, and the importance of redefining life’s priorities.

  • A policewoman’s journey of faith: ‘Cancer doesn’t have me’

    A policewoman’s journey of faith: ‘Cancer doesn’t have me’

    Michelle Clement, a dedicated police officer for 15 years, faced a life-altering moment in October 2022 when she was diagnosed with stage 4, grade 2 invasive lobular carcinoma, a form of breast cancer that had spread to both breasts and her lymph nodes. The news initially plunged her into fear and uncertainty, but Clement chose to lean on her faith and resilience to fight the disease. ‘The first thought that came to my mind was that I was going to die and leave my family behind,’ she recounted. However, she made a conscious decision to choose hope over despair, reminding herself that her faith in God was stronger than any medical diagnosis. Clement’s cancer was hormone receptor-positive, which opened up treatment options that have helped slow the progression of the disease and improve her quality of life. For her, every day is now a victory, and she celebrates small milestones with gratitude. Physically, the treatments have been grueling, leaving her tired, weak, and nauseous. Emotionally, she struggled with the thought of her family’s future without her. Yet, spiritually, she found strength in her faith, holding onto the belief that God’s strength is made perfect in her weakness. Clement’s journey has brought her closer to her family, especially her daughters, Clay-Ann and Chloe, who have been her pillars of support. Clay-Ann, 18, and Chloe, 21, have both been inspired by their mother’s courage and resilience. ‘She is, without a doubt, one of the strongest people I’ve ever known,’ Chloe said. Clement hopes her story will encourage others to prioritize regular screenings and early detection. ‘Cancer is not a death sentence,’ she emphasized. ‘Even at stage 4, you can still live a full, meaningful, and joyful life.’ She urges families facing similar challenges to stay positive, do their research, and surround themselves with uplifting people. Clement dreams of a future where cancer has a cure and looks forward to seeing her children graduate, get married, and start families of their own. Her message to women during Breast Cancer Awareness Month is clear: ‘Cancer is a word, not the end of your story.’