One of the ongoing challenges to the health system and its financing in Barbados, is the growing burden of non-communicable diseases.
In this Government of Barbados press release, the Minister of State from the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael describes the growing burden of non-communicable disease (NCD) in the island nation. According to a recent Barbados Investment Case study, there are increasing economic costs (direct and broader systemic costs) related to NCDs diseases like heart disease, diabetes, cancer and obesity. The Minister speaks to the World Health Organization’s “Best Buys” initiative which outlines cost-effective interventions to reduce risk factors behind the growth in NCDs. Some of these strategies have been integrated into national health policy in Barbados.
