Breast cancer continues to be a leading cause of death among women in Jamaica, particularly in the western region where Westmoreland has the highest incidence. The Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA) is spearheading efforts to combat this crisis through prevention campaigns, enhanced awareness, and improved diagnostic resources. Health officials across the island emphasize that early detection is critical to saving lives, a message reinforced by Dr. Christopher Tufton, Jamaica’s Minister of Health and Wellness. He has urged women to prioritize early screening to ensure the disease is caught at its most treatable stage. In Westmoreland, the situation is dire, with many patients presenting at advanced stages, limiting treatment options. Dr. Lincoln Cox, a general surgeon at Savanna-la-Mar Public General Hospital, highlighted the challenges of inadequate diagnostic tools and the financial burden of accessing radiological investigations in Montego Bay. The Misty Blue Foundation, supported by the Sandals Foundation, has been pivotal in driving awareness and providing screenings. Their efforts have expanded to include health education in schools, aiming to empower the next generation with knowledge about prevention and early detection. The recent Faith Gifford Breast Cancer Symposium, endorsed by the Ministry of Health and Wellness, underscored the importance of aligning national policies with local action to address this public health crisis. As Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed in October, Jamaica remains committed to reducing mortality rates through education, accessible screening, and timely treatment.
标签： Jamaica
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WATCH: Golding slams Speaker Holness for ‘undemocratic’ management of House affairs
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Opposition Leader Mark Golding has launched a scathing critique of House Speaker Juliet Holness, accusing her of undemocratic management of parliamentary proceedings. The criticism followed a dramatic walkout by Opposition members from the House of Representatives on Tuesday afternoon, which Golding led in protest. The Opposition alleges that Holness obstructed their attempts to question Environment Minister Matthew Samuda regarding his statement on an impending tropical storm expected to impact Jamaica within 48 hours.
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A ‘Flash’ of kindness
Mikiesha Flash, a resident of Reapers Road in Maverley, Jamaica, decided to mark her 34th birthday on October 17, 2025, in a truly extraordinary way. Instead of the usual parties or exotic vacations, Flash chose to give back to her community by feeding 340 homeless individuals in downtown Kingston. Her initiative, supported by a team of friends and led by an executive chef, took place at the Marie Atkins Night Shelter on Hanover Street. The group prepared and distributed a variety of meals to shelter residents and other homeless people in the area. Overwhelmed with emotion, Flash described the experience as ‘indescribable,’ emphasizing the joy she felt in helping others without expecting anything in return. She encouraged more people to join such efforts, stating, ‘If you can give back, no matter how small, it will surely be appreciated.’ Flash also endorsed the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation’s (KSAMC) call for coordinated feeding programs to better assist the homeless. Donna-Gaye Brady, acting inspector of the poor at KSAMC, praised Flash and her team for their generosity, noting that such initiatives alleviate the strain on the Poor Relief Department. Flash vowed that this would not be her last act of kindness, pledging to continue supporting those in need.
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Supreme Court to hear Buchanan’s application for judicial review
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Supreme Court has set Tuesday, November 18, as the date to hear an application for Judicial Review concerning a contentious decision made by the Constituted Authority in the St Andrew West Central election dispute. The application was initiated by Paul Buchanan, the People’s National Party’s candidate, who contested the September 3 general election and later sought to nullify the results. His request was previously denied by the Constituted Authority, leading to this legal challenge. During a recent case management hearing, the court characterized the matter as both serious and unprecedented, particularly due to its direct implications for the actions of the Constituted Authority. The presiding judge has mandated that legal documents be served to Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness, the Jamaica Labour Party’s candidate for the constituency, as well as the Attorney General, who will represent the Constituted Authority in the proceedings.
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‘Adapt or be left behind’, Seiveright tells students at college fair
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Delano Seiveright, Member of Parliament for St Andrew North Central, has called on students to prioritize adaptability, lifelong learning, and emotional intelligence as critical skills for thriving in an era marked by rapid technological and global transformation. His remarks were delivered at the Immaculate Conception High School College Fair 2025, an event that attracted over 1,000 students and representatives from more than 50 local and international universities.
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Doc credits national award to colleagues who fought COVID-19
Dr. Karen Webster Kerr, a prominent figure in public health and epidemiology, was among the distinguished individuals honored with the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander (CD) on Monday. The ceremony, held at King’s House in St. Andrew, recognized her exceptional contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Webster Kerr, however, humbly attributed the honor to her colleagues who worked tirelessly to safeguard Jamaica’s health.
Reflecting on the pandemic, Dr. Webster Kerr emphasized the critical role of Jamaica’s national epidemiology branch in analyzing data and implementing effective interventions. ‘Our team worked day in, day out to slow the virus’s spread, and their efforts likely saved many lives,’ she stated. As the principal medical officer and national epidemiologist at the Ministry of Health and Wellness, she highlighted the measurable impact of these efforts, noting fewer severe illnesses and deaths compared to other nations.
Also honored was Dr. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health and Wellness, who received the Order of Distinction (Commander Class) for his leadership in enhancing Jamaica’s health infrastructure. Dr. Tufton described the award as a reminder of the intrinsic rewards of public service. ‘It’s not why we serve, but it feels good to be appreciated,’ he remarked, adding that such recognition motivates continued dedication to the nation’s well-being.
In the education sector, Dr. Janet Dyer, principal of HEART College of Hospitality Services, was vested with the Order of Distinction (Officer Class) for her transformative work in technical and vocational training. From humble beginnings in St. Elizabeth, Dr. Dyer has dedicated her career to empowering young Jamaicans through education. ‘This honor represents the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance,’ she shared, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to shape Jamaica’s tourism and hospitality workforce.
The ceremony also celebrated gospel artiste Kevin Downswell, who received the Order of Distinction (Officer Class) for his contributions to Jamaican music. Downswell, known for uplifting songs like ‘You Make Me Stronger,’ described the award as a divine inspiration to continue serving through his craft. ‘This recognition is not about fame but about faith and purpose,’ he said.
The event underscored the profound impact of dedicated individuals across various sectors, highlighting their unwavering commitment to Jamaica’s progress and resilience.
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Canadian company to shutdown operations in Trinidad
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Nutrien, the world’s leading potash producer, has announced the commencement of a controlled shutdown of its nitrogen operations at the Point Lisas facility in Trinidad. The shutdown, effective from Thursday this week, is attributed to port access restrictions imposed by Trinidad and Tobago’s National Energy Corporation (NEC) and an unreliable, uneconomical natural gas supply, which has significantly impacted the facility’s free cash flow over time. Nutrien emphasized that it will continue engaging with stakeholders and evaluating options for its remaining operations in Trinidad. The company produces approximately 85,000 tonnes of ammonia and 55,000 tonnes of urea monthly in Trinidad and Tobago. Despite the shutdown, Nutrien remains confident in achieving its 2025 annual nitrogen sales target of 10.7 to 11.2 million tonnes, bolstered by robust performance in its North American operations. Nutrien Ltd, a global leader in crop inputs and services, continues to navigate operational challenges while maintaining its strategic outlook.
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Wife of Colombian killed in US strike says life taken unjustly
In a tragic incident that has sparked widespread debate, Alejandro Carranza, a 40-year-old fisherman from Santa Marta, Colombia, was killed in a US military strike last month. Carranza’s family insists he was an innocent man devoted to his craft, while US authorities claim he was among 32 alleged drug traffickers targeted in the Caribbean.
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Hosein, Simmonds replace injured pair for remaining Bangladesh ODIs
In a significant development for the West Indies cricket team, Akeal Hosein and Ramon Simmonds have been drafted into the squad as replacements for the ongoing One-Day International (ODI) series against Bangladesh. The decision was announced by Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Monday, following injuries to pacers Jediah Blades and Shamar Joseph. Blades, a 23-year-old left-arm medium pacer, has been sidelined due to a stress fracture in his lower back, ruling him out of the remaining matches and the subsequent tour of New Zealand. He will return home for rehabilitation. Meanwhile, Joseph, who missed the previous tour of India, experienced shoulder discomfort during the first training session ahead of the series opener. After a medical scan, he has been advised to consult a specialist in England to begin his recovery. Simmonds, 24, who recently debuted in the T20I series against Nepal, will bring fresh energy to the squad after taking four wickets in two matches. The West Indies currently trail the three-match ODI series 0-1 after a 74-run defeat in the opening match. The second ODI is set to commence on Tuesday, with the final match scheduled for Thursday.
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West Indies beat Bangladesh in super over after setting ODI spin record
In a groundbreaking moment for one-day international (ODI) cricket, the West Indies achieved a historic milestone by bowling a full 50 overs of spin in their second ODI against Bangladesh on Tuesday. This unprecedented strategy, combined with a thrilling super over, secured a narrow victory for the visitors, leveling the three-match series at 1-1. The match, held in Mirpur, saw a total of 92 overs of spin, setting a new record for the highest number of spin overs in an ODI, surpassing the previous record of 78 overs. The West Indies’ decision to field five spinners—Gudakesh Motie, Alick Athanaze, Akeal Hosein, Roston Chase, and Khary Pierre—paid off as they restricted Bangladesh to 213 for seven wickets. The West Indies mirrored this total, finishing at 213-9, before clinching the win with 10 runs in the super over. This marked the first time in ODI history that a team bowled exclusively with spin for the entire innings, eclipsing Sri Lanka’s 1996 record of 44 overs of slow bowling. The tactic was particularly striking for a team historically renowned for its fast-bowling prowess. Bangladesh, opting to bat first, relied heavily on their spinners, with Mustafizur Rahman being the only pace bowler used. The match’s outcome underscores the evolving dynamics of cricket strategies and the West Indies’ adaptability in modern-day cricket.