For nine months, I have been grappling with the loss of my father and the circumstances surrounding his death. While death is inevitable, the manner in which it occurs is not. My father was admitted to the hospital on a Saturday night, battling diabetes, hypertension, and other complications. I was later informed that the medication he received exacerbated his kidney issues, yet I was repeatedly assured his kidney function was ‘OK.’ The ambiguity of that term remains unresolved to this day. Upon returning home on Wednesday, I immediately sought answers, consulting doctor friends and advocating for clarity. What I discovered was deeply troubling: the hospital lacked basic supplies, such as plasters and the correct glucose percentage to stabilize his blood sugar. Despite my efforts, critical procedures were delayed. My father needed an ultrasound of his heart, but the paperwork was mishandled, and the responsible doctor had left for private practice. By Thursday night, his kidneys were failing, and his creatinine levels were rising. The next morning, we were called to sign papers for dialysis, but it was too late. My father was rushed to the ICU, where I was told his kidneys were beyond recovery, and multiple organ failure had set in. I was finally given answers, but they came far too late. The pain of reliving this ordeal is immense. My father deserved better care, and so do countless others who rely on a healthcare system plagued by resource limitations and inconsistent standards. My grief continues, not only for my father but for those who lack advocates in their most vulnerable moments.
分类： health
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CBH Hails Rodent Awareness A Success After Nationwide Campaign
The Central Board of Health (CBH) in Antigua and Barbuda has successfully concluded its Rodent Awareness Week, a comprehensive initiative aimed at educating the public on rodent control and effective waste management practices. The campaign, which spanned across various communities, emphasized the importance of maintaining clean environments to curb rodent infestations. Residents and businesses were actively engaged, with CBH teams deploying traps in key areas such as Grays Farm, Browne’s Avenue, Potters, St John’s Village, Point, and St John’s City to monitor rodent activity. The Board highlighted the crucial role of community cooperation in obtaining precise data. Additionally, CBH expressed gratitude to local businesses, including Perry Bay Supermarket, Townhouse Mega Store, Chase Supermarket, Woods Complex, and those at Judgement Square, for providing spaces for public demonstrations. Deeming the campaign a triumph, CBH announced plans to commence preparations for the next Rodent Awareness Week, slated for 2026.
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Doctor explains Confirmed: There is an outbreak of influenza A and B viruses: What is it, how is it spread, and how is it treated?
As winter sets in, the Dominican Republic is grappling with a notable rise in respiratory viruses, particularly influenza A and B, which are responsible for the flu. This seasonal spike has prompted concerns about the nature of the disease, its transmission, and effective treatment strategies, especially as thousands of Dominicans are already affected. Dr. Ezequiel Lugo, an internist and intensive care physician, explained to HOY newspaper that influenza is an acute viral infection primarily caused by the influenza virus, with types A and B being the most prevalent. Common symptoms include fever, muscle and head pain, cough, and nasal congestion or discharge. Transmission occurs through close contact with an infected individual exhibiting symptoms such as fever, general malaise, nasal congestion, sore throat, cough, or headache. While influenza often resembles a common cold, it can escalate to pneumonia and cause severe complications, particularly in children and the elderly. Treatment focuses on symptom management, with antiviral medications recommended within the first 72 hours of diagnosis to reduce complication risks. Dr. Lugo emphasized preventive measures, including mask-wearing, proper hand hygiene, and maintaining well-ventilated spaces. He also highlighted the importance of the influenza vaccine as the most effective tool for preventing severe cases, urging annual vaccination, especially for children and senior citizens. Dr. Lugo concluded by advising the public to seek medical attention promptly if symptoms arise.
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Only one quarter of colorectal cancer detected through screening
Barbados faces a critical challenge in the early detection of colorectal cancer, with only 25% of cases identified through screening, according to Dr. Lalitha Sripathi, an oncologist and head of the Oncology Department at Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Speaking at the Barbados Association of Medical Practitioners’ (BAMP) annual conference, Dr. Sripathi revealed that despite accessible testing services, public participation remains alarmingly low. The majority of cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, significantly reducing treatment efficacy. Colorectal cancer is one of the island’s top three most prevalent cancers, alongside prostate and breast cancer, collectively accounting for a quarter of all deaths in Barbados. Over the past decade, the nation has witnessed a steady rise in cancer incidence, with the Barbados National Cancer Registry reporting over 1,100 new cases and 700 cancer-related deaths in 2022 alone. Dr. Sripathi attributed the low screening rates partly to the stigma surrounding colonoscopies, which are perceived as invasive. To combat this, she advocated for greater promotion of the Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), a non-invasive, cost-effective alternative that can be conducted at home. She stressed the importance of linking screening to timely follow-up care, emphasizing that early detection must be paired with prompt treatment to improve outcomes. Dr. Sripathi also called for the establishment of standardized, nationwide screening pathways to enhance colorectal cancer management and save lives.
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New palliative care plans under discussion, but Barbados still without active system
Barbados is taking significant steps toward establishing a structured palliative care service, as revealed by Dr. Carlos Chase, Director of Medical Services at Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH). Speaking at the Barbados Association of Medical Practitioners’ (BAMP) annual conference, Dr. Chase highlighted that palliative care remains an evolving concept within the nation’s healthcare system. He announced that QEH teams will convene next week to discuss the framework’s structure, including staffing solutions, given the current shortage of oncologists. However, he acknowledged that Barbados has yet to implement a fully functional palliative care system.
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Radiation therapy to resume soon in Barbados
Barbados is set to enhance its cancer care capabilities with the reactivation of upgraded radiation therapy facilities at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH). The hospital’s new Halcyon linear accelerator, described as a high-end machine, promises advanced radiation treatments with improved imaging, accuracy, and speed. This development, highlighted by oncologist Dr. Lalitha Sripathi during the Barbados Association of Medical Practitioners’ (BAMP) annual conference, marks a critical step in addressing the island’s growing cancer burden. However, Dr. Sripathi emphasized that technology alone is insufficient. She advocated for a holistic approach to cancer care, encompassing medical, emotional, social, and spiritual support for patients.
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Global Fund Replenishment Conference highlights progress and gaps in fight against AIDS, TB, and Malaria
The 8th replenishment conference of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria concluded in Johannesburg with pledges totaling less than the ambitious $18 billion target. Despite this shortfall, the event underscored the critical need for global solidarity and sustained investment in health initiatives. Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli, CEO of the ONE Campaign, acknowledged the financial gap but praised the continued prioritization of lifesaving health programs by many world leaders. She emphasized that while innovations to combat these diseases exist, they require robust funding and political will to achieve transformative impact. Adrian Lovett, Executive Director for the UK, Middle East, and Asia Pacific at the ONE Campaign, highlighted the historic significance of hosting the conference in Africa, a region deeply affected by these diseases. However, he expressed concern over reduced or delayed pledges from major donors, including France, Japan, and the European Commission, urging governments to intensify their efforts. Since its inception in 2002, the Global Fund has saved 70 million lives and reduced deaths from AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria by 63%. The current replenishment aims to secure $18 billion to save an additional 23 million lives and prevent 400 million infections between 2027 and 2029. The Johannesburg conference, the first of its kind held in Africa, symbolized the continent’s pivotal role in combating these diseases and showcased a spirit of international collaboration despite global challenges. Updates on pledges can be tracked via ONE Data’s replenishment tracker.
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Young leader for diabetes urges Dominicans to prioritize health and wellness
Royette Charles, a prominent figure in Dominica’s health sector, is leading a powerful campaign to raise awareness about diabetes and promote healthier lifestyles. As an Executive Member of the Dominica Diabetes Association, Young Leader for Diabetes, and Pharmacy Technician, Ms. Charles is dedicated to inspiring hope among individuals living with diabetes while encouraging the broader population to adopt preventive measures. She emphasizes that diabetes is a serious health condition requiring consistent effort, discipline, and proactive lifestyle changes. Ms. Charles advocates for balanced routines, including healthier dietary choices, regular physical activity, and sustainable wellness habits. She also highlights the importance of empowering those already diagnosed to manage their condition effectively through proper monitoring and education. In her recent media address, she stressed the critical role of understanding how to use testing supplies correctly, noting that effective management of diabetes can significantly enhance quality of life and overall well-being.
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Medicinal Cannabis Authority Establishes Committee to Address Substance Misuse in Schools
The Antigua and Barbuda Medicinal Cannabis Authority (MCA) has taken decisive action to address the growing issue of substance misuse among students by establishing a specialized committee. This initiative underscores the MCA’s dual commitment to fostering a regulated medicinal cannabis industry while safeguarding public health. During its statutory meeting on November 20, 2025, the MCA Board expressed grave concerns over increasing reports of substance abuse in schools and resolved to tackle the issue head-on.
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UK-Caribbean mission unites health leaders to boost innovation and regulation
Senior health officials from Barbados and other Caribbean nations recently participated in the inaugural UK-Caribbean Life Sciences and Regulatory Trade Mission in London, hosted by the UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT). This four-day event aimed to bolster the modernization of healthcare systems across the Caribbean, focusing on improving access to safe medicines and enhancing regulatory frameworks. The mission provided a platform for Caribbean regulators to engage with leading UK institutions, including the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), King’s College London, and the Centre for Innovation in Regulatory Science (CIRS). Key discussions centered on streamlining drug registration, adopting international standards, improving regulatory efficiency, and integrating digital technologies into health systems. UK High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Simon Mustard, emphasized the broader impact of this collaboration, stating that it strengthens health systems, drives economic growth, and fosters long-term partnerships. D’Jamila Ward, Regional Trade Director for the Commonwealth Caribbean at DBT, highlighted the mission’s significance in addressing regulatory challenges and improving access to essential medicines. Barbados was represented by Lindsay Bynoe, assistant director and pharmacist at the Barbados Drug Service, and Maryam Karga-Hinds, interim director general of the Barbados Medical Products Authority, who underscored the country’s commitment to advancing pharmaceutical regulation and regional collaboration. Karga-Hinds reflected on the mission, noting that it has deepened partnerships and strengthened knowledge to ensure equitable access to safe, effective medical products for all Caribbean citizens. This initiative highlights the UK’s commitment to partnering with Caribbean nations to strengthen health systems, foster innovation, and improve patient outcomes, paving the way for future collaborations on regulatory reform, investment opportunities, and digital health integration.