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Individuals enjoying a brisk walk during 2008 Caribbean Wellness Day
On September 15th 2007 CARICOM Heads of Government met in Trinidad for the historic Port of Spain NCD Summit entitled “Uniting to stop the Epidemic of Chronic Non Communicable Diseases.” It was at this summit that the second Saturday in September was declared “Caribbean Wellness Day” to commemorate this landmark summit.
The theme for this year, is the same as that of last years’ “Love That Body”. As medical treatment for these Chronic Non Communicable Diseases is becoming alarmingly more expensive, there is need, especially for persons over 40 years, to take responsibility to preserve their health by eating the right foods and becoming more involved in physical activities.
Dominica through the Ministry of Health and Environment is well poised to commemorate the Day. All seven health districts along with several stakeholders partnering with the ministry will be taking part in various activities. Hikes, walks, aerobic exercises, dancing, cycling, healthy food displays among others will be conducted throughout the country. Highlights will include T Shirt day on the 11th September and Caribbean Wellness Day Rendezvous on the Dame Eugenia Charles Boulevard to include the market place on the 12th from 6am-12 noon. That very evening from 5pm, the cricket game of the year will be played at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium, where five teams will vie to be the team that will face the Cabinets’ eleven.
Various addresses will be delivered to the nation by various ministers on the topic Love that Body.
The Ministry of health and Environment encourages all Dominicans to participate in Caribbean Wellness Day as we all together with our Caribbean counterparts improve our community’s fight against Chronic Non Communicable Diseases.
