Renowned dancehall artist Future Fambo, born Warren Gladstone Williams, experienced a mild heart attack in New York on Sunday, prompting an urgent response from FDNY medical personnel. The incident occurred after the artist, who has been diagnosed with diabetes, consumed cornmeal porridge following a period of fasting due to extensive travel. Fambo shared a 28-second video on Instagram, showing himself on a sofa, clad in underpants, connected to medical equipment as paramedics worked to stabilize his condition. He described feeling cold sweats and blurred vision, which led his friend to call for emergency assistance. Fambo attributed the episode to a sudden drop in blood sugar exacerbated by the porridge. Despite the scare, he opted to recover at home rather than go to the hospital, reassuring fans that he is now “alright.” The artist revealed that he received concerned calls from fellow dancehall stars, including Sean Paul, Flexx, and Mavado. Reflecting on the incident, Fambo expressed his intention to embrace Christianity in January 2024, citing disillusionment with the music industry’s hypocrisy. He recently released a gospel-inspired single, “Amazing Song,” on World Blast Records, emphasizing his spiritual journey. Fambo also shared that he had prayed for half an hour before the heart attack, viewing it as a pivotal moment in his life.
分类： health
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Dr Dawes urges Jamaica to improve efforts in addressing mental health crisis
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Amid a concerning surge in suicide cases across the nation, Dr. Alfred Dawes, the Opposition Spokesperson on Health and Wellness, has urged a collective effort to tackle Jamaica’s deepening mental health crisis. The call comes as the country recorded its highest suicide rate in 23 years in 2024, with alarming statistics highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
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OP-ED: Big Tobacco Calls It Harm Reduction, Caribbean Youth Calls It Profiting From Addiction
The Caribbean has become a focal point for lobbying efforts by groups such as the World Vapers’ Alliance, Smoke Free Sweden, and We Are Innovation. These organizations are pushing narratives aimed at weakening robust tobacco control measures in the region, particularly ahead of the 11th Conference of the Parties (COP11) to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). Recent articles and social media campaigns targeting Barbados and Trinidad have promoted the tobacco industry’s agenda, falsely portraying electronic cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and heated tobacco products as harm reduction tools. However, these claims are not supported by independent public health research. Instead, these products are aggressively marketed to youth, are highly addictive, and pose significant long-term health risks. Nicotine, a key component of these products, is linked to cardiovascular disease, cancers, and impaired brain development in adolescents. The World Health Organization has warned that the tobacco industry is using these newer products to undermine public health policies while continuing to profit from traditional cigarettes. Dr. Arthur Phillips, Deputy Chief Medical Officer in Barbados, highlighted the vulnerability of Small Island Developing States to the long-term costs of nicotine addiction. The Barbados National NCD Commission has also raised concerns about the rise of vaping, emphasizing its health risks and aggressive marketing to youth. Caribbean governments, as parties to the WHO FCTC, must remain vigilant against industry interference and advocate for evidence-based tobacco control policies at COP11. Measures such as higher tobacco taxes, advertising bans, and accessible cessation services are essential to protect public health.
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Former UPP Hopeful Jermaine N. Edwards Reveals Breast Cancer Diagnosis
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and supporting those affected by this devastating disease. This year, the narrative takes a deeply personal turn as Jermaine N. Edwards, a long-time advocate, reveals her own battle with breast cancer. Known for her unwavering support and advocacy, Edwards now steps into the spotlight not just as a voice for others, but as a fighter in her own right.
Edwards’ journey with breast cancer began with a heavy truth she could no longer silence. ‘I have breast cancer,’ she writes, acknowledging the weight of those words. For Edwards, this diagnosis is more than a personal struggle; it is a call to action. She emphasizes the importance of early detection, urging women to perform self-examinations and seek medical attention at the first sign of abnormality. ‘Early detection is often the difference between life and death,’ she stresses.
Her story is one of resilience and vulnerability. Edwards reflects on the emotional and spiritual toll of cancer, describing it as a rollercoaster of courage, tears, hope, and exhaustion. She shares how cancer has reshaped her life and the lives of those around her, testing the strength of her family and loved ones. ‘Cancer does not strike one. It strikes all,’ she writes, highlighting the collective impact of the disease.
As a community advocate, Edwards has always been the pillar of strength for others. Now, she finds herself in the unfamiliar position of accepting support. ‘Vulnerability has never been my comfort zone,’ she admits, but cancer has forced her to open her hands and let others hold her up. Her message is clear: no one should face this battle alone.
Edwards concludes with a powerful call to action. She urges women to prioritize their health, get screened, and support organizations working tirelessly to find a cure. ‘Your tomorrow may depend on what you choose to do today,’ she reminds readers. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Edwards is not just raising awareness—she is standing in the fire, fighting with everything she has.
Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, hope and determination can prevail.
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New network of air quality sensors to warn of health risks
Barbados is on the verge of a groundbreaking advancement in public health protection, as the University of the West Indies (UWI) spearheads the deployment of an extensive network of air quality sensors across the island. This initiative, developed in collaboration with national agencies such as the Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) and the Department of Emergency Management (DEM), aims to provide real-time warnings about hazardous smoke and air pollution, particularly benefiting individuals with respiratory illnesses.
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“I have breast cancer” – Community Advocate Jermaine N. Edwards
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when advocates like Jermaine N. Edwards amplify efforts to educate and inspire action. This year, however, the message is deeply personal. Edwards, a long-time advocate, has revealed her own diagnosis of breast cancer, transforming her role from supporter to patient. Her candid disclosure underscores the profound impact of the disease, not only on the individual but on their entire circle of loved ones. Edwards reflects on the emotional and spiritual toll of cancer, sharing her journey from strength to vulnerability, and from fear to determination. She emphasizes the importance of early detection, self-examination, and community support, urging women to prioritize their health and seek help at the first sign of concern. Edwards’ story is a powerful call to action, blending personal resilience with a broader message of awareness and advocacy. She vows to fight with unwavering hope, embodying the spirit of Breast Cancer Awareness Month not just as an advocate, but as a survivor in the making.
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‘Let’s check on each other’
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Dr. Christopher Tufton, Jamaica’s Minister of Health and Wellness, has issued a heartfelt appeal to citizens to prioritize mental health by checking in with loved ones and utilizing available mental health resources. Speaking against the backdrop of rising suicide rates and increased calls to the national Suicide Prevention Helpline (888-NEW-LIFE), Dr. Tufton emphasized the collective responsibility of addressing mental health challenges. ‘Every Jamaican must pause, observe their surroundings, and offer support to those in need. When personal efforts fall short, professional help through public health services, faith-based organizations, or safe spaces should be sought,’ he stated. The helpline recorded 633 calls last month, underscoring the urgency of the situation. Dr. Tufton’s remarks follow his participation in the United Nations General Assembly’s High-level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health Promotion. The Ministry of Health and Wellness is actively enhancing mental health services, including training non-psychiatric healthcare workers under the WHO’s Mental Health Gap Action Programme. Additionally, the School Mental Health Literacy Programme will resume in November, aiming to educate students on mental health awareness and coping strategies. Community-level initiatives, such as the Problem Management Plus providers, are also being expanded to support individuals facing emotional distress. With over 150 public mental health clinics islandwide, Jamaica continues to strengthen its mental health infrastructure. Other resources include the U-Matter Chatline for youth and a helpline for substance use-related mental health support.
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Dominican Republic showcased in New York as regional leader in health tourism
The Dominican Republic is rapidly gaining recognition as a leading destination for medical tourism, thanks to its world-class healthcare facilities, internationally accredited hospitals, and bilingual medical professionals. Treatment costs in the country are 40–60% lower than in the United States, making it an attractive option for international patients. Dr. Alejandro Cambiaso, president of the Dominican Association of Medical Tourism (ADTS), attributes this success to the nation’s robust flight connectivity, year-round tropical climate, and renowned hospitality, which collectively enhance its appeal.
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CariGenetics and Bayview Laboratory Partner to Launch Genetic Testing in Barbados
Bayview Laboratory has forged a groundbreaking alliance with CariGenetics, a Bermuda-based genetics firm, to enhance access to genetic testing services in Barbados. This partnership heralds a new chapter in personalized healthcare for the island, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their health and wellness. The collaboration introduces a comprehensive suite of genetic tests, encompassing paternity, familial, and ancestry analysis, alongside insights into nutrition, fitness, skincare, personality traits, medication efficacy, and health risks. Notably, Barbadians will gain access to the region’s inaugural gut microbiome analysis kit, with self-collection kits soon available at Bayview Laboratory and select pharmacies island-wide. Dr. Lyndon Waterman, Lab Director, emphasized the transformative potential of these services, stating, ‘Your DNA holds the key to understanding optimal nutrition, fitness routines, skincare regimens, and even disease predispositions and medication responses.’ Bayview Laboratory’s recent expansion of its testing menu, which now includes cholesterol, HbA1C, and liver and kidney function tests, underscores its commitment to advancing community health. The partnership also aligns with CariGenetics’ mission to address the underrepresentation of Caribbean genetic data in global genomic research. Dr. Carika Weldon, Founder & CEO of CariGenetics, highlighted the broader implications of this disparity, noting, ‘The lack of diverse genomic data, particularly from the Caribbean, results in less effective treatments and inequitable healthcare outcomes. Most medical research is based on European DNA, which represents only 15% of the global population.’ Together, Bayview Laboratory and CariGenetics are not only democratizing access to advanced genetic tests but also establishing a secure, anonymous genomic database to fill critical gaps in global research. This initiative positions Barbados and the wider Caribbean at the forefront of personalized, data-driven healthcare, marking a significant milestone for the region.
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200 men turn out for prostate tests at Misty Blue Cancer Care screening drive in Westmoreland
In a significant stride towards community health, approximately 200 men in Westmoreland, Jamaica, participated in a free prostate cancer screening event on September 25. Hosted by the Misty Blue Cancer Care Foundation at Independence Park in Savanna-la-Mar, the event marked the organization’s 10th anniversary of delivering vital health services in the parish. The initiative was widely praised for its accessibility and role in promoting early detection of prostate cancer, a critical factor in improving health outcomes. Participants, including Norman Cole from Negril, highlighted the comprehensive nature of the tests, which included the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exams (DRE). Cole emphasized the cost savings and the thorough follow-up care provided by the Foundation. Victor Sangster of Chantilly Gardens underscored the importance of such events in a region where access to screening remains limited, noting the tragic loss of friends to prostate cancer due to late diagnoses. Joshua Grey commended the staff’s professionalism and the additional health checks, such as blood pressure and sugar level assessments. Dorothy Satchwell, Founder and Chair of the Foundation, shared the organization’s mission to advance community health, rooted in her personal cancer experience. The event, supported by partners like the Westmoreland Health Department and the Sandals Foundation, also included educational sessions on follow-up care and holistic health checks. Gerald Miller, Health Promotion and Education Officer for Westmoreland, stressed the importance of early detection and the Foundation’s efforts to encourage health-seeking behaviors among men. This initiative stands as a testament to the power of community-driven health programs in combating prostate cancer and improving overall well-being.