The Grenada Food and Nutrition Council (GFNC) recently hosted a compelling webinar titled ‘Cooking with Danger: The Health Impact of Reused Cooking Oil in Grenadian Kitchens.’ Held on September 23, 2025, the virtual event attracted 100 participants, including cooks, chefs, healthcare professionals, educators, and entrepreneurs. The session featured insights from National Epidemiologist Larissa Mark and Dr. Ariel Frederick, both Grenadian experts with strong ties to St. George’s University and extensive experience in public health and disease prevention. The webinar aimed to address the widespread but often overlooked risks associated with reusing cooking oil, a practice that can lead to the accumulation of harmful chemicals like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), linked to cancers such as lung, breast, and prostate cancer. A poll conducted during the event revealed that 42% of attendees admitted to adding new oil to reused oil, while 24.5% reused oil 2–3 times. GFNC CEO Lydia Browne emphasized the importance of public education and awareness, urging participants to share the information widely. The council also highlighted the need for routine inspections of food establishments to ensure safer cooking practices. The webinar replay is available for those who missed the live session, offering valuable insights into healthier cooking habits and the broader implications of reused oil on public health.
标签： Grenada
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World Contraception Day: 26 September
The ongoing debate surrounding the Age of Civil Responsibility (ACR) Bill has brought to light critical issues concerning adolescent sexual health in the Caribbean. Recent findings reveal that only 5% of parents engage in conversations with their children about puberty and responsible sexual behavior. Alarmingly, some parents fail to cooperate with legal authorities in cases involving sexual predators, and in extreme instances, even exploit their children for financial gain. The Caribbean region holds the dubious distinction of having the second-highest adolescent fertility rate globally, the second-earliest sexual debut, and three countries ranking among the top ten for gender-based violence. While the ACR Bill alone cannot resolve these deep-seated issues, it serves as a catalyst for broader initiatives. These include promoting abstinence, overcoming parental reluctance to discuss sex, enhancing sexuality education in schools and churches, and improving access to contraceptives and counseling for sexually active individuals of all ages. Studies indicate that 99% of women visiting public health clinics are aware of at least one contraceptive method. However, 80% report that their most recent or current pregnancy was unplanned. The primary reasons for not using contraceptives include fear of side effects (55%), partner objection (22%), and cost (8%). Addressing these challenges requires dispelling myths about modern contraceptives, combating patriarchal attitudes, and implementing policies that eliminate legal and economic barriers to contraceptive access. World Contraception Day serves as a poignant reminder of these ongoing struggles. Sincerely, Tonia Frame, President, Grenada Planned Parenthood Association (GPPA) and Fred Nunes, Consultant, Advocates for Safe Parenthood: Improving Reproductive Equity (ASPIRE). NOW Grenada is not responsible for the opinions, statements, or media content presented by contributors. In case of abuse, click here to report.