Monday, September 16, 2024

5 THE STAR NEWS • Monday, September 16, 2024 @JamaicaStar www.facebook.com/JamaicaStar • www.jamaica-star.com T he Ministry of Health and Wellness is urging the nation to rally behind its new Chronic Care Model, designed to tackle Jamaica’s skyrocketing cases of non- communicable diseases (NCDs), such as diabetes and hypertension. The initiative seeks to improve access to diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care. Dr Tamu Davidson, director of the NCD and Injuries Prevention Unit, emphasised that an “all hands on deck” approach is crucial. “We need everyone involved – healthcare providers, communities, and individuals. Together we can prevent the devastating complications these chronic illnesses cause,” she said. The Chronic Care Model, part of the Health System Strengthening Programme, aims to transform the way care is delivered to those battling NCDs. The comprehensive framework combines medication, exercise, diet, and other lifestyle changes to ensure patients receive optimal care and can effectively manage their conditions. Jamaica is in the midst of a national health crisis, with more than 77 per cent of deaths attributed to NCDs such as heart disease, chronic respiratory issues, and cancer. Davidson expressed the urgency to address the burden of diabetes and hypertension, two of the most widespread and dangerous conditions in the country. “Diabetes is one of the leading causes of death in Jamaica, and hypertension affects an estimated 32 per cent of our population,” Davidson said, noting that most Jamaicans know someone who has been impacted by these conditions. She pointed to findings from the most recent Jamaica Health and Lifestyle Survey (2016), which revealed that a large percentage of individuals with diabetes or hypertension were unaware, delaying timely and appropriate care. “Far too often, people first learn of their condition after experiencing severe complications, such as kidney disease, stroke, or heart attack. This is a result of delayed diagnosis and insufficient management of the disease,” the director said. “Without proper control of diabetes and hypertension, the risk of complications, like amputations, hospitalisations, and even death, remains high,” she warned. Ministry unveils plan to tackle chronic disease crisis TIFFANY PRYCE STAR Writer D espite Jamaica’s low suicide rate, leading mental health expert Professor Wendel Abel has issued a stern warning about the alarming number of young people harbouring thoughts of suicide. While the country’s suicide rate stands at a relatively low 2.1 per 100,000, Abel revealed a worrying trend among the youth. “We are seeing a concerning number of young people reporting thoughts of suicide,” said Abel, emphasising that their impulsive nature heightens the risk of tragic outcomes. “Young people’s mental health issues are significant, and their developing brains make themmore vulnerable to impulsive actions,” said Abel, who is head of community health and psychiatry in the Faculty of Medical Sciences at The University of the West Indies. He stressed that mental health struggles among the youth, such as stress, depression, and substance abuse, are pushing many to the brink. Adding to the complexity, Abel highlighted cultural beliefs that may have kept Jamaica’s suicide rates low. “Many Jamaicans believe that suicide carries severe spiritual repercussions,” he explained, hinting that these fears may deter people from taking the final step. September marks Suicide Prevention Month. Dr Kevin Goulbourne, director of mental health at the Ministry of Health and Wellness, pointed to the ministry’s ‘Do Your Share’ campaign as a vital tool in addressing the mental health crisis. “Our ongoing mass media campaign encourages individuals to use safe spaces to share their concerns and problems, while others listen and provide support,” said Goulbourne. He reported that suicide numbers have fluctuated in recent years, with an average of 50 to 60 deaths annually. Men account for more than 80 per cent of suicides on the island. In 2023, 56 men compared to 10 women took their own lives. By 2024, 47 men and four women were reported victims. Abel believes that cultural shifts and global influences are hitting Jamaica’s youth hard, leading to increased mental health struggles. While praising the ministry’s efforts, Abel issued a stark warning: “The campaigns are important, but more needs to be done. Our young people’s lives depend on it. “There is still a lot to be done in terms of raising awareness. We need to focus on mental health literacy, especially in schools, to help young people cope with their stress and trauma,” he urged. Professor sounds alarm on youth suicide risk Hypertension affects an estimated 32 per cent of Jamaica’s population. Ian Allen Professor Wendel Abel, Head, UWI Department of Community Health and Psychiatry. Friday, September 13, 2024 $241,500,000 1 14 26 28 34 2 No Winner No Winner No Winner No Winner 1 Winner 10 Winners 18 Winners 278 Winners 266 Winners 259 Winners 244 Winners 1,083 Winners 993 Winners No Winner No Winner 1 Winner 11 Winners 21 Winners