Carib Scope

分类： health

  • ‘It’s not over’

    ‘It’s not over’

    LOS ANGELES — As the world prepares to commemorate World AIDS Day on December 1, 2025, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) announces a series of global events emphasizing the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS. Despite decades of medical advancements, the organization highlights the sobering reality of 1.3 million new infections occurring worldwide annually, signaling that the epidemic remains a critical public health challenge.

    The international observances—spanning Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas—will focus on promoting HIV prevention, testing, condom accessibility, treatment, and care. This year’s commemoration holds particular significance as AHF celebrates a major operational milestone: expanding its services to 50 countries since first launching global programs in South Africa and Uganda in 2002.

    Current global statistics reveal approximately 40 million people living with HIV worldwide, with women and girls accounting for over half of those affected. Persistent stigma, discrimination, and financial barriers continue to hinder access to essential care, particularly among key vulnerable populations.

    Terri Ford, AHF’s Chief of Global Advocacy and Policy, emphasized the ongoing challenges: “This World AIDS Day reminds us that the fight against HIV is far from over. Millions still face barriers to testing, treatment, and ongoing care, while stigma and high drug prices put lifesaving tools out of reach.”

    The events will also address the chronic underfunding of global HIV response programs. Advocates are calling for sustained financing, including full funding for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, and challenging pharmaceutical companies to prioritize accessibility over profits.

    Ford specifically criticized pharmaceutical pricing practices: “Even with prevention tools like long-acting injectables, high prices keep them out of reach for the people and countries that need them most. Innovation doesn’t matter if it isn’t accessible to all.”

    The commemorations will honor those lost to AIDS-related illnesses while reinforcing the message that HIV/AIDS must remain at the forefront of national and global public health priorities. The theme “It’s Not Over” serves as both a memorial and a call to action for governments and communities worldwide to recommit resources and political will toward ending the epidemic.

  • World Aids Day: Reducing Aids-related deaths in the Caribbean

    World Aids Day: Reducing Aids-related deaths in the Caribbean

    The Caribbean region has emerged as a global leader in HIV/AIDS response, achieving the most significant reduction in AIDS-related mortality worldwide according to the latest UNAIDS data. Between 2010 and 2024, the region recorded a remarkable 62% decline in deaths, surpassing the global average of 54% and outperforming all other regions monitored by the international health organization.

    This extraordinary progress, detailed in the July 2024 Global AIDS Update Report titled ‘AIDS, Crisis and the Power to Transform,’ is largely attributed to the expanded availability of antiretroviral treatment (ART) throughout the Caribbean. The region’s success stands in stark contrast to Eastern Europe and Central Asia, which reported a concerning 48% increase in AIDS-related deaths during the same period.

    Dr. Richard Amenyah, Director of UNAIDS Multi-Country Office in the Caribbean, praised the achievement as particularly noteworthy given the region’s numerous challenges. “The Caribbean’s stellar performance shows the resilience of a region constrained by social, economic challenges, high debt, declining external funding, and natural disasters,” Amenyah stated, emphasizing how “critical political leadership is to safeguard people’s health without distinction.”

    The statistical transformation has been dramatic: in 2010, only 53,000 people living with HIV received treatment in the Caribbean, with 13,000 adults and children succumbing to AIDS-related conditions that year. By 2024, treatment coverage expanded to 250,000 people—including 50,000 added between 2020-2024 alone. Current metrics show 85% of HIV-positive individuals know their status, 74% receive treatment, and 66% achieve viral suppression, a substantial increase from 33% in 2017.

    Despite celebrating these advancements, UNAIDS officials expressed concern about the pace of reducing new HIV infections. While global new infections have decreased by 40% since 2010, the Caribbean has managed only a 21% reduction. The 2024 data revealed 15,000 new infections, with Haiti, Dominican Republic, Cuba, and Jamaica accounting for 90% of cases. Young people aged 15-24 represent 25% of new infections, highlighting a critical demographic requiring targeted intervention.

    The report calls for enhanced integration of HIV services into broader health systems, strengthened community partnerships, and addressing social determinants like stigma and discrimination. Caribbean governments are urged to increase domestic funding—which rose from 30% in 2023 to 38% in 2024—and ensure programmatic sustainability to achieve the 2030 goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat.

  • STI cases rise, highest rates among young adults

    STI cases rise, highest rates among young adults

    Jamaica is confronting a significant public health challenge as official data reveals a persistent upward trajectory in sexually transmitted infection (STI) cases over the past four years. The Ministry of Health and Wellness has documented 35,713 STI cases within the public health system for 2024, marking a concerning increase from 34,278 in 2023 and 31,572 in 2022.

    Medical experts identify young adults aged 20-24 as the demographic bearing the highest infection burden, followed closely by the 15-19 and 25-29 age groups. Women continue to be disproportionately affected, comprising 28,220 of the total cases compared to 7,493 men in 2024.

    Dr. Nicola Skyers, Senior Medical Officer at the National HIV/STI Programme, clarified that genital discharge syndromes—encompassing conditions like gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis—account for over 99% of presentations. Meanwhile, genital ulcer diseases, including herpes and syphilis, constitute approximately 1% of cases. Syphilis infections specifically surged to 1,216 cases in 2024 after dipping to 865 the previous year.

    Healthcare professionals attribute this epidemiological trend primarily to insufficient condom usage and engagement in multiple partner relationships. Dr. Annisha Skinner of St. Ann Medical’s AHF Wellness Centre reported observing steady testing numbers throughout the year, with syphilis positivity peaking at 5.7% in July.

    Despite the rising STI prevalence, Jamaica is witnessing parallel developments in its HIV landscape. UNAIDS statistics indicate approximately 28,000 Jamaicans were living with HIV in 2024, though new infections declined to 1,100 from 1,200 in 2023. The national HIV prevalence rate stabilized at 1.1%, showing improvement from previous years.

    The Ministry of Health is currently conducting enhanced surveillance through a comprehensive survey to gather detailed STI-specific data, with results anticipated in 2026. Medical authorities emphasize that while testing accessibility has improved, it should not replace consistent safe sex practices including condom use, transparent partner communication, and avoidance of high-risk behaviors.

  • CARPHA and Guyana’s Ministry of Health Launch its 70th Annual Health Research Conference: A Historic Milestone for Regional Public Health

    CARPHA and Guyana’s Ministry of Health Launch its 70th Annual Health Research Conference: A Historic Milestone for Regional Public Health

    GEORGETOWN, GUYANA – The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), in collaboration with the Government of Guyana, has officially announced the 70th Annual Health Research Conference (AHRC), scheduled for April 22-24, 2026. The event will be hosted at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre in Georgetown, marking a historic milestone as the longest-running health research gathering in the English-speaking Caribbean.

    Under the theme “Innovations in Health,” the conference will celebrate seven decades of scientific advancement, regional collaboration, and evidence-based policy-making in public health. Executive Director of CARPHA, Dr. Lisa Indar, emphasized the transformative power of innovation, stating: “Public health innovations are engines of modern well-being—they turn deadly outbreaks into manageable obstacles, extend life expectancy, and bring quality health services to remote corners of the world.” She highlighted cutting-edge tools such as AI-driven epidemic prediction systems and smart vaccines as key examples.

    Guyana’s role as host reflects its significant investments in health infrastructure and digital medicine. Honourable Dr. Frank Anthony, Guyana’s Minister of Health, outlined the country’s pioneering work in telemedicine, drone-based medicine delivery, and AI-assisted medical imaging. He also noted Guyana’s progress toward eliminating five neglected tropical diseases by 2030, offering valuable lessons for regional partners.

    The conference will gather researchers, medical professionals, policymakers, and international partners to explore technological advancements shaping disease prevention, diagnostic accuracy, and health equity. It aims to strengthen collective preparedness against emerging health threats while honoring CARPHA’s legacy of regional cooperation.

  • Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre Issues Urgent Call for O-Negative Blood Donations

    Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre Issues Urgent Call for O-Negative Blood Donations

    The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre has declared a critical shortage of O-negative blood supplies, prompting an emergency public appeal for immediate donations. This universal blood type, essential for emergency trauma care and surgical operations, has dropped to dangerously low levels that could compromise patient care.

    Medical authorities at the hospital’s blood bank issued a formal notice urging all eligible O-negative carriers to come forward without delay. The unique biological properties of O-negative blood make it medically invaluable as it can be safely administered to patients of any blood classification, particularly during critical emergencies when standard cross-matching procedures aren’t feasible.

    To facilitate urgent donations, the hospital has extended operational hours at its blood collection facility, which remains accessible daily between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Healthcare officials emphasize that community participation in blood donation drives directly impacts survival rates in life-threatening situations, with each contribution potentially saving multiple lives.

    The medical institution continues to monitor the situation closely while implementing contingency measures to stabilize blood inventory levels. Additional public announcements are anticipated as the hospital manages this critical supply challenge.

  • Return! Cases of chikungunya are being reported: practical tips for prevention

    Return! Cases of chikungunya are being reported: practical tips for prevention

    Health authorities have confirmed three imported cases of chikungunya virus from Cuba, raising concerns about potential transmission risks in the Dominican Republic. The Ministry of Public Health issued the alert last Thursday, identifying the Aedes aegypti mosquito as the primary vector responsible for spreading this arboviral disease alongside dengue and Zika.

    The current epidemiological situation is particularly concerning due to seasonal rainfall patterns that create ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes. Stagnant water accumulation in urban and residential areas has significantly increased the proliferation potential of disease-carrying insects, creating heightened vulnerability among the local population.

    According to World Health Organization guidelines, effective mosquito habitat management remains the cornerstone of prevention strategies. Health officials emphasize that eliminating breeding sites requires a multidisciplinary approach spanning public health, environmental management, and community education sectors.

    Recommended preventive measures include:
    – Removing or properly sealing outdoor water containers including flower pots, bottles, and storage vessels
    – Installing protective covers on domestic water tanks and storage reservoirs
    – Implementing proper waste management practices with sealed plastic bags and covered trash receptacles
    – Maintaining clear drainage systems to prevent water stagnation
    – Installing window and door screens to create physical barriers against mosquitoes

    Health authorities stress that community participation is essential for successful mosquito population control and reducing disease transmission risks.

  • PANCAP Director Issues Defiant World AIDS Day Message: “We Will Not Go Back”

    PANCAP Director Issues Defiant World AIDS Day Message: “We Will Not Go Back”

    Caribbean health authorities have issued a powerful declaration of resolve in the face of mounting financial challenges threatening regional HIV/AIDS elimination efforts. On World AIDS Day 2025, Dr. Wendy Telgt Emanuelson, Director of the PANCAP Coordinating Unit, delivered a stirring message emphasizing regional determination to preserve hard-won gains against the pandemic.

    The statement comes amid significant global funding reductions that jeopardize critical treatment programs, prevention initiatives, and decades of progress. Rather than retreating, Caribbean leaders are championing a transformative approach under the theme “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response.” This strategic pivot emphasizes efficiency, community empowerment, and optimized resource allocation to maintain momentum toward elimination targets.

    Notable achievements already demonstrate the region’s capability, including several Caribbean nations successfully eliminating mother-to-child HIV transmission. The ongoing commitment to the 95-95-95 targets (95% of people living with HIV knowing their status, 95% on treatment, and 95% virally suppressed) remains unwavering despite financial headwinds.

    Dr. Emanuelson’s address specifically acknowledged healthcare workers, civil society partners, and affected communities as essential pillars in this renewed effort. The message stressed that Caribbean resilience, forged through historical challenges, provides unique strength to overcome current obstacles through innovation, solidarity, and strategic restructuring of response systems.

    The director’s concluding remarks framed the funding crisis not as a defeat but as an opportunity to build a more sustainable, community-led model that could ultimately strengthen the region’s path toward complete HIV elimination by 2030.

  • Thousands of patients await leaving Gaza for medical treatment

    Thousands of patients await leaving Gaza for medical treatment

    Gaza’s healthcare system faces catastrophic collapse as medical authorities reveal a devastating human toll of delayed medical evacuations. Health Ministry Director-General Munir al-Barash reported that approximately 1,000 patients holding approved referrals for external treatment have died during the protracted waiting period for border crossings to open.

    The documented casualties represent only a fraction of the growing healthcare emergency in the coastal territory. Official records indicate that 18,100 patients have received approval for medical transfer abroad, including 5,000 cancer patients, 7,000 injured individuals, and approximately 500 children requiring specialized care unavailable in Gaza.

    Al-Barash criticized neighboring countries for maintaining closed border crossings despite the documented medical emergencies. All patient cases have been formally submitted to both United Nations agencies and the World Health Organization (WHO), which are working with local authorities to address the crisis.

    The healthcare collapse stems from the devastating combination of destroyed medical infrastructure and critical shortages of essential supplies, including life-saving medications. The territory’s health system, already weakened by years of conflict and restrictions, now faces complete breakdown under the weight of overwhelming medical needs and insufficient resources.

    This week’s warning from Gaza’s health leadership highlights the urgent need for international intervention to prevent further loss of life among critically ill patients awaiting evacuation.

  • STI cases rise, highest rates among young adults

    STI cases rise, highest rates among young adults

    Jamaica’s public health system is grappling with a concerning escalation in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), marking a persistent upward trajectory over the past four years. Ministry of Health and Wellness data reveals a significant climb from 31,572 cases in 2022 to 35,713 documented infections in 2024, with young adults aged 20-24 bearing the highest burden of disease.

    Medical experts identify genital discharge syndrome—comprising infections like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis—as the predominant presentation, accounting for over 99% of cases. Conversely, genital ulcer diseases including herpes and syphilis constituted approximately 1% of diagnoses. Notably, syphilis cases demonstrated a worrying resurgence, jumping from 865 cases in 2023 to 1,216 in 2024.

    Dr. Nicola Skyers, Senior Medical Officer of the National HIV/STI Programme, highlighted the disproportionate impact on young demographics. “Twenty to twenty-four is the highest incidence group, followed closely by adolescents aged 15-19 and young adults 25-29,” she explained, attributing this trend to insufficient condom usage and engagement with multiple sexual partners.

    The gender distribution remains markedly skewed, with women comprising 28,220 cases compared to 7,493 among men in 2024. Concurrently, Jamaica’s HIV landscape shows complex dynamics: while overall prevalence stabilized at 1.1%, the estimated number of Jamaicans living with HIV increased to 28,000. Encouragingly, new HIV infections declined to 1,100 cases in 2024, continuing a downward trend from previous years.

    Healthcare providers emphasize that testing accessibility improvements shouldn’t replace preventive measures. Dr. Annisha Skinner of St. Ann Medical Center cautioned that “STI testing should not be used as a substitute for practising safe sex,” advocating instead for comprehensive prevention strategies including consistent condom use and transparent partner communication.

    The Ministry of Health is currently conducting enhanced surveillance to gather more precise STI data, with complete findings anticipated in 2026. Medical authorities reaffirm that all major STIs remain treatable, with immediate antiretroviral therapy initiation for HIV-positive diagnoses.

  • Health Ministry reviewing PrEP, DoxyPEP for wider public access

    Health Ministry reviewing PrEP, DoxyPEP for wider public access

    The Ministry of Health in Trinidad and Tobago is conducting a comprehensive evaluation of two key preventative medications for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as part of a potential shift in public health strategy. Health Minister Dr. Lackram Bodoe confirmed the review is examining pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV (PrEP) and doxycycline prophylaxis (DoxyPEP) through the ministry’s HIV/AIDS Coordinating Unit, following global health guidance.

    This development comes in response to growing advocacy from public health experts and organizations, including a recent call for expanded access to these tools amid rising HIV and STI cases. Of particular concern is a sharp increase in syphilis infections among pregnant women.

    Minister Bodoe emphasized that the technical assessment encompasses clinical benefits, behavioral implications, cost considerations, and international best practices. “Our priority is always to reduce new HIV infections and protect the health and well-being of the population,” Bodoe stated. “Any decision related to PrEP or DoxyPEP will be guided by science, expert advice, and what is best for the people of TT.”

    The Family Planning Association of TT (FPATT) identified these medications as critical components in the national effort to eliminate HIV/AIDS by 2030, aligning with global UNAIDS targets. While recognized globally as effective prevention tools, neither medication is widely available through public health services except under specific circumstances such as occupational exposure for healthcare workers or following sexual assault.

    Significant barriers to implementation include the absence of a national policy enabling general access, sustainable funding challenges for government programs and NGOs, persistent stigma around HIV, logistical and procurement issues, and insufficient awareness among both the public and healthcare providers.

    Dion Gill, founder of the KingK Initiative and mental and sexual health educator, highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach beyond clinical considerations. He emphasized addressing cultural misconceptions that these medications encourage promiscuity, instead framing them as tools for sexual autonomy and mental well-being. Gill advocated for community-led healthcare services, particularly for reaching vulnerable populations like men who have sex with men, and stressed the importance of confidentiality in encouraging uptake.

    The ministry has not provided a specific timeframe for completing its review but has committed to updating the public once the technical assessment is finalized.