EDITORIAL
This month is Breast Cancer Awareness Month across the globe and here in Barbados activities have kicked into high gear as several events are scheduled in recognition of the occasion, and also as part of fund-raising efforts to help fight the disease.
Since August there have been small undertakings like the ‘Paint for the Cure’ at Radisson Aquatica Resort and the lighting of Grantley Adams International Airport in ‘GAIA Goes Pink’. However, the big event takes place this Sunday with the Walk for the Cure/5K Walk & Run. Each year thousands of people take part in this exercise and its popularity only seems to be growing as a similarly large number is expected for 2018.
The overwhelming response to the Fun Walk/Run must however be echoed in the numbers who seek screenings, and not just breast cancer screenings, but prostate cancer as well. Similarly, we hope that the support in the fight against cancer is being followed up by changes towards a healthier lifestyle by the entire public. Cancer is a deadly disease and everyone must do whatever is in their power to reduce their risk of falling victim to this disease.
To start, everyone must be informed. A fact sheet published on cancer revealed that 30 per cent of them could be prevented or modified by avoiding key risk factors, for example tobacco use; obesity; low fruit or vegetable intake; lack of physical activity; alcohol use; sexually transmitted HPV infection; urban air pollution and indoor smoke from use of solid fuels. Based on these, several of the behaviours common throughout Barbadian society can be considered high risk; for instance, indiscriminate burning in communities; diets high in fat and simple carbohydrates; low or no physical activity in a sedentary lifestyle; and frequent and excessive use of alcohol in rum shops or at parties.
Furthermore, considering that cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide (accounting for approximately 13 per cent) it is obvious then that it impacts not only personal health, but would effect economies at the national level through a diminished workforce and the burden of health care costs of patients who need financial assistance shouldering treatment expenses.
Barbadians are therefore being called upon to take action now, using this month’s activities as a stimulus. Already this and the previous Government have set a good track record by having a more visible push towards preventative health care. Ministries have teamed up and continue to do so to bring about change not just in communities, but also in schools. They are pushing healthy lifestyles education and exercise programmes.
All that is left to do is for every individual to take up the challenge and make a positive change with regard to their health. As most people grow older they come to the same realisation that in life, health is everything. Whether it is your own health or the health of loved ones, there is nothing that tops one’s list of priorities.
In light of this, it is hoped that Barbadians pay attention and let October be the start of a brand new you.