CARICOM, UK University partner to fight popular diseases

In a ground-breaking initiative to combat the rising challenge of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental health issues, Nottingham Trent University (NTU) and the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at assessing and addressing the health needs of populations in the Caribbean and the United Kingdom.

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental health issues are the primary causes of death and disability globally. Prevention through addressing risk factors like tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and unhealthy diets is crucial to mitigating their long-term health impacts.

NTU and CARPHA will work to exchange knowledge and collaborate to identify key challenges and solutions to the current and future health of adults in the Caribbean and the United Kingdom.

There will also be opportunities for grant applications and proposals related to NCDs and associated risk factors in both regions, leveraging their combined expertise to address pressing public health issues.

The groups will also facilitate information dissemination related to NCDs and associated risk factors in the Caribbean and the United Kingdom, ensuring that valuable insights reach the wider public.

Dr Ian Varley, NTU’s Project Lead, said, “It’s fantastic to collaborate with CARPHA on a project of this nature. The agreement formalises the strong relationship that Nottingham Trent University and CARPHA have established in mitigating the impact of NCDs in both the UK and Caribbean region. The collaboration represents a comprehensive approach that combines research, education, and practical strategies for addressing NCDs.”

Dr Joy St John, CARPHA’s Executive Director, noted the significance of this initiative, stating, “Non-communicable diseases continue to be a major public health and economic burden for the Caribbean region, accounting for more than 65 per cent of all deaths. This partnership will go a long way in supporting policies, programmes and practices geared at helping Caribbean people to engage in health promoting behaviours”.

Since it was legally established in 2011, CARPHA is the sole regional public health agency for the CARICOM region. Its mission is to strategically address regional public health priorities and focuses on disease prevention, health promotion, and emergency response.