One of the main charities in the fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is expressing concern about the impact of the coronavirus, COVID-19, on NCD sufferers, among those most vulnerable to the viral infection.
The Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC) said it was especially concerned given the high levels of NCD’s throughout the region.
Experts have indicated that in addition to the elderly, individuals with underlying health issues including diabetes, and diseases of the lung and heart, are more at risk of dying from COVID-19 disease.
The HCC said: “The regional situation is evolving rapidly and we are entering a period of uncertainty. We are all aware that those living with NCDs are particularly vulnerable to Covid-19.
“With the high burden of NCDs in the Caribbean we will need to make every effort to protect this vulnerable group.
“Given the ongoing regional and global developments with the Coronavirus pandemic we wanted to share that HCC is taking a number of precautionary measures to protect our personnel while minimising and adapting critical organisational activities including implementation of our grants”.
Studies have shown that eight out of every ten people in the Caribbean die from NCDs annually. About 40 per cent of NCD deaths occur prematurely in those under 70 years and are potentially preventable.
Heart attacks, stroke, diabetes and cancers are the leading causes of premature death, while hypertension is the leading risk factor for death.
The HCC pointed out that in the Caribbean, diabetes prevalence is double that of global rates and according to surveys conducted in 12 Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries, 10 to 25 per cent of adults have diabetes and 20 per cent to over 50 per cent suffer from high blood pressure.
The charity said: “HCC has shared some key messages for our membership regarding COVID-19 and NCDs.
“Our global partners are continuing to develop important guidance for this subpopulation.
“We will use our various communication channels to share information and guidance for people living with and affected by NCDs.”
The HCC said it was urging residents to follow all guidance from the World Health Organization and Pan-American Health Organization as well as health experts and practice social distancing and personal hygiene.
“We must do everything in our power to #flattenthecurve and allow our health systems to function effectively and minimise death,” the HCC said, as it urged residents to get their information from credible sources.
