Bleak picture of chronic disease risk in Dominica

Dr. Etienne said chronic disease statistics in Dominica is startling
Dr. Etienne said chronic disease statistics in Dominica are startling

Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), Dr. Carissa Etienne, has described the risk of chronic diseases in Dominica as an erupting volcano, with a huge eruption on the way.

“We already have all of the risk factors present for chronic diseases. This morning I met with cabinet and I told cabinet that we are sitting on a volcano that has started erupting, but the huge eruption is yet to come,” Dr Etienne said while addressing a press conference at the Old APU Building at the Princess Margaret Hospital on Tuesday 7th July 2015, said. “So we are on a tsunami of chronic diseases.”

The PAHO Director is reporting what she described as ‘startling statistics’ on the island in terms of chronic diseases.

“We have some startling statistics in Dominica,” she said. “For every three persons, one has high blood pressure. For every five persons in Dominica, one has diabetes. For every four persons in Dominica, one has high cholesterol. For every two people in Dominica, one is overweight or obese.”

Etienne said to tackle this, an ‘enabling environment’ is key.

“Very often individuals must change their lifestyles, and that is true. But what is more true is that together we have the responsibility to ensure an enabling environment,” she said. “An environment within which people can live healthy lifestyles, an environment where their foods do not contain high salt levels or high sugar levels or high trans-fat levels, that we have possibility for physical activities in our communities and our schools.”

She pointed to “legislation and taxation that seeks to limit or stop the use of tobacco and the excessive use of alcohol.”

“That we have rules and legislation against the excessive use of alcohol, against the sale of alcohol to minors, for tobacco as well, and we have those laws that are enforced,” she stated. “So it’s not enough to have the laws on the books, we have to ensure that they are enforced. There needs to be a movement across all sections of the society.”

Minister for Health, Dr. Kenneth Darroux, who also addressed the press conference, said the Ministry is aware of the alarming statistics.

“Yes we are aware of it. That’s why we concentrate on prevention, at the primary care level,” he said adding that Dominica has “lagged a bit” in terms of implementing some of the mentioned measures.

“I think slowly but surely cabinet, as an entity, is beginning to understand the linkages or the cohesion that needs to exist as it pertains to health care,” he said.

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83 Comments

  1. A Doubting Thomas
    July 9, 2015

    As a representative of the Labor Party and the Labor Party government I would like to denounce Doctor Etienne’s declaration. First of all she must remember that it is Roosevelt Skerrit who got her the job and so as usual we expect absolute loyalty. Let it be known that we are not pleased at all that Dr Etienne is portraying the Dominica government in a negative way. We did not expect her to go public but nevertheless our PRO team will find a way to discredit the doctor’s declarations.

  2. truth
    July 8, 2015

    I wish us luck

  3. Dca
    July 8, 2015

    Dr Irving Pascal/Dr Eipigh, told them so. look Dr Etienne is saying the same thing…wonder if they will listen.
    Director of Primary Health Care is a waste, a clone being controlled by remote control…no vision or leadership and overweight.
    Permanent Secretary of health is the perfect vision of obesity
    The Chief Medical Officer, is Daf, if you want to get away with something is put the information in words and on paper for him….lacking lacking, lacking
    Minister of Health is young inexperience doctor turned politician, who cannot match up to the task at hand.

    a las

  4. Francisco Telemaque
    July 8, 2015

    “Dr. Carissa Etienne, has described the risk of chronic diseases in Dominica as an erupting volcano, with a huge eruption on the way.”

    You know, just because a doctor says something does not mean what the doctor said is correct: if we are to define chronic in the simplest form it simply means, an illness marked by long duration, or frequent recurrence, something that is not acute!

    So, what is term a risk of chronic diseases?

    Let’s take for instance someone fell, and sustained a spinal inquiry that may not require surgery; physical therapy does not help the pain: hence, the doctor may determine the pain the patients are experiencing is chronic. Meaning they simply have to learn to live indefinitely with the pain! Nothing can be done to get relief from the pain permanently.

    Every, and all genetically inherited (heredity) disease unless there is a cure, is indeed a chronic diseases. One cannot compare that to obesity, although obesity in some people are heredity. We…

    • Francisco Telemaque
      July 8, 2015

      We are aware that some chemicals, in food causes cancer, but to suggest eating fast food alone will cause cancer, or indulging in vast amount sweet beverages will cause diabetes is total nonsense!

      Anybody who has studied Health Science, in the hope of becoming a medical doctor should have learnt in premed school that every human alive are born with cancer cells in their body. For some reason the cells proliferate; ( grow rapidly) in some people, whereas they do not proliferate in others.

      When it grows rapidly in some people, if caught in stages one or two, and treated, chances are they will go into remission; at stage three, the victim has a slim chance of surviving, if it is detected at stage four, only God can keep the patient to survive and live!

      That is considered chronic; but to suggest a risk of chronic disease pending for an eruption in Dominica is simply over exaggerating! I try to avoid getting into this one, but could no longer avoid it!

  5. The Calabash
    July 8, 2015

    Oh…and wanted to agree with Elizabeth…nothing is more depressing than presence of that Kentucky next to my favorite place in Dominica…..the Roseau market……
    All that beautiful, healthy stuff, right there and the queue to the ‘poison shop’ blocks traffic all around.

    Need a forceful, courageous policy change and strong messaging about what’s in the public good. Back to self reliance on all that’s good. Less imports

  6. The Calabash
    July 8, 2015

    Am not surprised at the many comments. This one is so obvious to see. Especially for those of us who grew up there and then left for 30 years or so. The current population is completely transformed in physiology than what it was before. It is shocking to see the pervasive level of obesity, especially amongst the youth.
    We must focus on the diet. This is one area where going backwards is a good thing.
    Back to basic provisions, limited fried and process foods…. (drop the Kentucky, imported meats, cereals and other packaged foods).
    We are a small country, with a small population. This is one area where a strong government can dictate an outcome with a series of tough policy prescriptions.

  7. Lang Mama
    July 8, 2015

    Maybe health healthy eating and exercising is something the first lady could have adopted like Ma Obama. But then again genuine concern for people is not something you develop thru political positions or even pretense. Instead this attitude of caring is an up bringing, one from the heart not hat.
    In November 2014 they were all about giving out gift baskets and today where is the luv. The only luv is when they pickup and go make their child in America and then come back and tell us consume local.
    Who want to play dotish that ah they- Me no go to red clinic nor do I wait for $1.50 rum so I speak freely.
    When Doctor IP Pascal express similar concerns they verbally assassinated him in parliament. Today Karrissa Etienne is basically saying the same thing and the gang of crooks are whispering acknowledgement.

  8. Adella (ATF)
    July 8, 2015

    I was just in Dominica and this is what I saw:
    1. The Dominican drinking culture — people are on the streets *pull-up* drinking EVERY day of the week.
    2. Every corner has a snackette (or random street person) selling fried chicken, fried dough and fried potatoes.

    I counted 30 + bars from Massacre to Mero and 0 walkers.

    While I was there, I never ate anything from a can, nor did I once stop to look twice at the sellers who fry. Dominicans: demand your cassava cake, roasted corn and plantain again!
    #MysteryOil #WhenDidYouLastChangeIt

  9. Maay Npear
    July 8, 2015

    A small bottle f coconut oil is $30 plus.
    A small peace of provision $5 plus
    Healthy eating living out of an rented apt not a reality..
    Its ramen and rice..we need help..ASAP.

  10. July 8, 2015

    So what you expect when dominicans are feasting on developed nations diet.they will develop diseases that was once associated with developed countries,which those countries are trying to change,while dominicans continue to feast on junk foods.no amount of back and forth political rhetoric will challenge the problem.

    • Elizabeth
      July 8, 2015

      I think you missed the point.What she said is that there is individual responsibility that is made much easier by what the policy makers do.For example how do you expect to encourage healthy eating by giving a licence for a fast food foreign outlet next to your fresh local food and vegetable market.
      Its negligent or at a minimum sending the wrong signal plain and simple..
      Is always has a political dimension and no one should apologise for it.
      Leadership is indeed everything. But what kind of leadership?

      • Francisco Telemaque
        July 8, 2015

        Individual responsibility is one thing, but how do you defend from an chronic heredity, or anticipate such a disease. She missed used the word chronic!

      • The Real Facts
        July 8, 2015

        Where I reside in Ontario, it is the same. There are approximately four fast food outlets as Mac Donald’s including a Tim Hutton’s. Further down the road there are a few more as Kentucky. In fact, there are a few more within that area. I am not tempted one bit. However, once in a while I may purchase chicken and fries. I cannot tell when last though. To me, it is as if they are not there.
        I can make all of them and tasty as well.
        They should try to cook all their meals with certain seasonings which will make them tasty. Get some recipes and cook sumptuous meals which are nutritious and fat-free.
        I saw some recipes prepared in the same manner as Kentucky and MacDonald’s.
        I am amazed what is on the Internet. Those who have a computer and internet service, could easily Google whatever recipe they wish. There are also some easy ones.
        I have noted and saved even recipes to make homemade seasonings. How sorry I am that in the past I purchased seasonings.

    • The Real Facts
      July 8, 2015

      They should exercise self-control.
      Has anyone considered that as we become older, there is a tendency to put on weight which may not necessarily mean eating food that is not nutritious and is fatty. Lack of exercise could be the cause of it.
      Consider too the days when there was more partying, right here in Canada. As we became older and relatives and friends moved away to different suburbs, there is hardly a party.
      I recall when I came to Toronto, every weekend there was a party. Some also had parties on Sundays. It is said that dancing is an exercise and can keep one slim.
      Today we have computer, internet and TV with all these 24-hour programs. There are many couch potatoes as they call those who spend a lot of time viewing TV.
      I have previously stated this. In bygone years few people had a car and many people walked to church, school and work. Today, note in D/ca nearly every home as one or more vehicles. They walk less. This could account for some obesity.

  11. LANSAL
    July 8, 2015

    doc take care skerrit go in de parliament and blast you even threatening to say what he know about you.

  12. Kharma comes around
    July 8, 2015

    There is something missed out in the article. Dominican men seem to be attracted to very large ladies, the bigger their bottom the better for some men. I have to say I am amazed at how some of these over sized women dress! They wear tight clinging clothes which show every Tyre roll of fat and show how much everything wobbles!! Many people seem to live on KFC and pizza fast food. The women are encouraged to be large! Perhaps they do not realize the risk to their health! Heart disease, diabetes, water retention, on and on it can go. Very, very sad, with no apparent answer.

    • %
      July 8, 2015

      The L and XL ladies even look down on the slimmer and trimmer ladies,as though they are unattractive. Everything on island is inside out, upside down!

      • The Real Facts
        July 8, 2015

        I recall this appeared to be the norm and acceptable in the past. Some of these men are still living in the past. They need to grow up and be broadminded.
        One can be slim and still look attractive. There are those, no matter what they eat and how much, they still remain slim and may appear not to look well that one may wonder if they are starving themselves.
        There are also some who do not eat much and yet they appear big. It all depends on the physical make up.
        The trend today is to keep slim but healthy. People are more aware of what they eat and drink and how much sugar and salt they utilize. There is a lot of this information on the internet which could assist us to avoid what is not nutritious and keep us relatively and healthy and slim without looking like a starving person. People have to change their eating and drinking habits.

  13. grell
    July 8, 2015

    Darroux lagged you and the rest of the labour party are a waste.I visit home twice a year and see the shopkeepers selling alcohol in the presence of police officers,our people have become lazy and very dependent on processed foods,they no longer use the pressure cooker to cook the red beans anymore.ITS all the canned goods that killing them.America is phasing out all the processed food yet the caribbean is consuming all of it daily,sad for my people.

    • The Real Facts
      July 8, 2015

      Are you aware that you have to be careful using the pressure cooker to cook beans/peas? As I read, you should put a little oil in it so that it does not boil up especially if you have a digital pressure cooker; I like this one.
      For those who have an electric steamer, they could steam rice and vegetables. It is quick and conserves less energy. I usually steam West Indian food. It has no salt. Eaten with chicken, meat and gravy, the latter if we wish, it is tasty.
      It will take a while for D/cans to get accustomed to not eating processed foods. As for me and my family, we hardly ever eat processed foods. In fact, I do not purchase them. I love home-made prepared foods.
      This includes sweetened juices. Recently, the Canadian Federal government took off orange juices from the food list. I think it was stated they contain too much sugar. I would also think less orange as well.
      If we read about these matters and listen to the News we will learn much health-wise.

      • Francisco Telemaque
        July 9, 2015

        Facts you need to say where you are hiding in Toronto; let’s have the name of the area where you live. Toronto is not simply one gigantic city: i. e. you have East and North York, you have Brampton, places such as Mississauga, and other place which makes up Toronto.

        So I demand you identify exactly where you are living! Don’t forget I know where your friend Elizabeth lives, and (she ain’t hiding like you oui!), and we know she name too!

      • grell
        July 9, 2015

        Dominicans have become lazy and beggers my friend,and they will continue on the destructive path.

  14. derp
    July 8, 2015

    the data is not surprising, what do you expect from the fattest Caribbean counry, based on population density… smh Dominica has so much to hike yet…. people remain fat…

  15. Jonathan st jean
    July 8, 2015

    In the words of the. Skerritt administration, “we have lagged a bit”.This is an understatement, yet an admission that this administration has failed the people of Dominica,miserably and should get out the way for the sake of the future of the country. Lets be serious,without good health what is the value of material possessions? As Dr Etienne pointed out,we are sitting on a volcano so where is the future?
    This government has killed agriculture,the health infrastructure is a mess,poverty is on the rise,so I ask where is the vision?Compared to otother OECS countries,Dominica has moved closer to the donkey’s tail,therefore I ask,isnt this Labor government a bad thing for the people of D/ca?The proof is all around us, and they have admitted it.Thanks Dr. Etienne for getting them to admitt to it.

    • Politburo
      July 8, 2015

      Garcon this former police office not easy nuh. Skerrit and Labour now making people obese with diabetes and high blood pressure. Garcon people have to take responsibility for their life styles. Cant you see the number of persons eating fried foods and pizza every day. Is Labour force them eat that?

  16. July 8, 2015

    Meanwhile we’re building an abattoir so that Dominicans can eat more meat, which makes no sense if the goal is to encourage people to eat more healthily.

    • NKRUMAH KWAME
      July 8, 2015

      Does it mean that meat is not good to eat? Give me a break with this nonsense!
      HOTEP!

    • samantha
      July 8, 2015

      So what’s the alternative? Not to have an abattoir where animals can be slaughtered under hygienic, controlled conditions? Or perhaps we should just stop eating meat because we cannot control our portion sizes. Nonsense man.

    • Francisco Telemaque
      July 8, 2015

      Chicken is okay, however, the skin must be removed because all the fat, and cholesterol is in the skin, furthermore every bit of fat found in the meat must be extracted, Turkey is better, but the skin must also be eliminated.

      Now the idea of killing all this amount of pigs according to Skerrit, is ridiculous! That is the worst meat a human can eat, not only because of its high contents in fat, there is one thing people laugh at when they are informed of a species of worms found only in pig meat; no matter how well the meat is cooked, at what temperature, the worm never die!

      There is someone down he street from my house who has had seventeen operation, to his head in order to remove that type of worm in his brain!

    • The Real Facts
      July 8, 2015

      In this era nearly everyone is on a diet. We should keep in mind that God created edible animals as cows and chicken for our consumption.
      Meat is healthy. The problem is not eating too much and the fat.
      Our bodies do require a certain amount of sugar, salt and fat. The body is made to be able process them.
      We do not have to be a fanatic about not eating this and that. What matters is what we consume and how much of it.
      We should eat at a certain time; not when we are almost ready to sleep. Consider how many people do that. This is why the main meal is supposed to be at noon or 1:00 pm. In the evening, dinner should be light. I have head we should not eat a heavy meal later than 7:00 pm. How many of us do that?
      You know about the Sunday afternoon nap. :) I recall after a Sunday meal, my father would tell us, do not eat and lie down. Let the food digest first. Wait at least two hours. He practiced what he preached. :) The same in the evenings.

      • Francisco Telemaque
        July 9, 2015

        “We should keep in mind that God created edible animals as cows and chicken for our consumption.
        Meat is healthy. The problem is not eating too much and the fat.”(Facts).

        Facts, God told the Children of Israel what sort of meet they should eat, and how they should prepare it. People do not do as God said, and that is one of the problems.

        Whereas you believe all meat are good, you have not yet learnt that red meat (cow) has just about the highest contents of cholesterol, we obtain protein from meat, however, one must be careful to select lien meat. And should always eat in moderation. (actually in small amounts), and your theory that everybody is on a diet is not true, I often wonder how you deduced the things you write.

        Her is an example where you wondered if Martin had a good step ladder to climb the tree; we don’t use ladder to climb tree in Wesley!

    • Skerrit's Pawhen
      July 9, 2015

      Meanwhile we’re building an abattoir . hEY DENIZON We’ve? lol I object- you all are building an Abatoir
      is what you need to say

      • July 10, 2015

        How sad it is that the only time you can spell correctly is when you copy and paste what I’ve written….

  17. Oh Yes
    July 8, 2015

    Dr. Etienne as the architect of the primary health care system in Dominica a mere two decades ago. I am sure that her heart now aches to see the once superior system being envied and emulated in the region just literally died. Mismanagement of the health care system over many years has brought us where we are. Someone wrote an article some six years ago about square pegs in round holes epitomized by our low grade political system. Being popular in your locality does not make you an effective leader. The unfortunate reality is that, like other ministries, the ministry of health is out of focus, lacks direction. And who suffers? The people like you and me. Doc, Thanks for telling us all, and reminding us all of the sad reality. Even worse yet is that, the minister says they are aware of the dreadful situation in the country. We ate being misled and misdirected, although each individual has equal responsibility for himself and herself.

    • Biased Observer
      July 8, 2015

      Why do we feel the need to be so politically biased on these comments? Dr. Etienne was speaking to a trend that is currently affecting the region and world not just Dominica. To paint this as mainly the governments fault(regardless of whatever government is in power) is just too slanted a position to take. Individuals are ultimately responsible and their lifestyle choices need to be reviewed. Furthermore, she didn’t criticize the whole health system but her comments were directed specifically at the approach taken towards chronic non-communicable diseases.

    • The Real Facts
      July 8, 2015

      Much of the health information I know were taken from local newspapers, health magazines, the internet and heard on TV and radio.
      We cannot always depend on the government and/or ministry of health. It is our health. We must do our homework. Most people today have computer and internet. They can find out about these matters.
      Those who do not have a computer and may not be able to read and comprehend, the ministry of health and the district nurse should inform them of health matters.
      Through the years whenever I noticed certain health matters, I saved them. I have a few disks filled with health information and recipes that I told someone I hope I live to be 600 years. I keep increasing the years. :lol: Wishful thinking. If only the Good Lord wills. :lol:
      I also love discussing health matters and giving relevant advice, as if I know so much. :lol: In talking to others, there are times I forward some information to them which they do not have.

  18. Annon
    July 8, 2015

    And then Darroux joined them? Come on, do something great for the people sake fellas.

  19. %
    July 8, 2015

    This government does not have the capability to do anything right, other than to accumulate wealth for themselves.No wonder those people with the ability to leave the country are leaving in droves.They have spoilt,infected and affected everything good which they met upon taking office.

  20. Elisabeth
    July 8, 2015

    Dr Pascal raised the red flag last year in his DNO article” Delivery of Health Care Services on a slippery slope.”
    Guess what Skerrit and his cronies threatened to expose and destroy the man.
    She is saying the same thing lets see if they will listen now and take corrective action.
    We need more competent leadership in this place. Help Dr Ettienne! Help!!!!

  21. Lang Mama
    July 8, 2015

    If we have a tsunami of physical ailment coming what about the impending mental catastrophe with so many young kids who are and were sexually molested. Since 2009 over 900 cases of child molestation and that is even more added fear.
    A country that has been cursed simply because too many good people said nothing and pretended that the evil trend is ok. The acceptance of lies,stealing ,raping, denial of the poor to basic services, the impoverishment of citizens etc. Harvest time is near

  22. Zammmmm
    July 7, 2015

    Dr Ettienne is a very honest , caring n credible person.
    She had to let the government know the reality put there.
    This health minister is takiin so much nonsense now because Doc open the eyes of the public. The minister saying he is aware ; so wat is being done. To many Dominicans dying early due to high blood pressure, diabetes n so forth…
    Rural grass roots programs are needed. Education is key, educate the kids so as to educate their parents.
    Health campaigns are needed not the minister talking nonsense bout getting things under control. .
    ohhh some of them ministers need to start exercising instead of driving up n down.
    The government need to open gyms at various departments….so staff can exercise n keep fit

  23. Tina Alexander
    July 7, 2015

    I think the situation requires creative use of VAT . Higher for cigarettes, alcohol and sodas and lower for healthy food, pampers and children’s clothing.

  24. Malpardee
    July 7, 2015

    Is america life style they want to pick up, but they don’t realize americans eating all their pizza and fry chicken, when their health at risk there are enough resources to take care of them. What happens in da??

  25. The Real Facts
    July 7, 2015

    Dr. Etienne is informing D/cans and reminding them of the necessity to eat nutritiously so as to maintain a healthy lifestyle and free of chronic diseases, at least while they are young.
    We do know, too much of one thing is good for nothing. Therefore, we must eat and drink in moderation.
    On more than one occasion, I have read on DNO of the concern of diabetes and some other illnesses. They could be avoided especially at a young age if proper nutrition is observed.
    Not everyone has a computer and can afford to pay for internet services. Nevertheless, every village in D/ca has a district nurse who (I assume) visits patients in those areas or may make a casual visit to homes. The Ministry of Health should provide them with the necessary information to share with them.
    In the case of especially adults, the health damage may already have been done and is too late to turn back this clock. However, the youths could be counseled about maintaining good health.

  26. Dan Tanner
    July 7, 2015

    US sends hospital ship and ignorant racist Dominicans reject it. he same idiots practically breed mosquitoes and sperad garbage around to feed the deadly rats and flies.

  27. mujahardin
    July 7, 2015

    you now understand that our country is on life support. you now understand why ministers and other high government officials and their families travel overseas whenever in need of medical attention. demitri was not just born in the usa, but all his prenatal care was done in the usa. not one local doctor touched his mother’s belly. while the minister of health frolics around the world our health care system is a vocano waiting to be erupted a tsunami in the making according to the esteemed director of paho. the statistics speaks for itself. i wonder what the skerrit supporters have to say about the independent analysis of our health system by paho. not lennox linton and uwp that say this time. speak laborites speak, dominica dying.

    • Skerrit's Pawhen
      July 8, 2015

      Not dying my friend has died .It was killed in 1980. Now its in the phase where vultures are enjoying the corps by selling & profiting big time. Morality education died too. Are the Lawrences , Peepip, Medard et Al gonna take their millions with them when they collapse and die? the mansion escaldaes etc. Dead men walking. They are all sick from high blood pressure Diabetes Lupus, asthma even the transmitted in other forms I do not want to mention ask the opposition moreso the leader.
      What comes in high office.
      The offices are no longer high they are like low bearing fruit. anyone can pick all one needs to hold high office is to be coruptable.\That’s all dat is all
      Ee pane travail encore sa yo kay faite por $ yo? le population say femme -la.

    • Skerrit's Pawhen
      July 9, 2015

      What DA needs plenty mujahardins

  28. whistle blower
    July 7, 2015

    The Primary Health Care system was reviewed the other year. What has become of the suggestions to position nutritionists, dietitians, podiatrist, counselors etc in each health district? When Dr Ettienne was here the last time she suggested the need for sin taxes – that is increased taxes on alcohol, tobacco, sweet drinks etc. Nothing has been done. Instead we have a big KFC next to our fresh food market where the poor and sick die for more salt and fat of Mr KFC. At the same time the government is administering fatal drugs to the agricultural industry and poisoning the Salisbury people with chemicals that could very well manifest in some chronic respiratory disease and add to the list of CNCDs down the road.

    • The Real Facts
      July 8, 2015

      I also purchase Vitamin C, D, E. When I run out of them, be it one, I usually purchase them with other items as also milk, etc. Last week I purchased a bottle of Vitamin D and E. To my surprise I noticed they are taxed, thirteen cents on the dollar. I commented about it to the cashier. Her response was, nearly everything is taxed.
      Some years ago an MP stated, people cannot go to the washroom, take a shower, shave and brush their teeth without being taxed. We, in Canada (and probably the US) are taxed too much. It was not so years ago especially in Canada.
      I believe onions and garlic are taxed. I must look into it. I never noticed because I purchase them with other items.
      I will inform my MP and MPP about it. Imagine taxing Vitamins. These are supplements and I will continue taking them.
      Whatever you think the government is doing which displeases you and others, you should look into it and see if it could be rectified.

  29. mandate 2 mismanage
    July 7, 2015

    And yet…that Lindo Park track is still pending….
    Dominica is a mess!

  30. Really
    July 7, 2015

    Bu where does the government come into this nuh?In 1997 i was diagnosed with hypertention,went on medication,started planting my veggies and exercising and in 2005 was off medication,this was due to eating right and exercise,i never knew i had to blame one govt in 1997 and thank another in 2005. We have been hearing for years to control our intake and exercise and we have been ignoring it and now we are blaming this govt for all this?Some of us are really sick but mentally,we will never change!!

    • Mamizoo
      July 8, 2015

      No one said that the desease hypertension is the government fault it is the failure of the government to put things ib place to help control the spread of the illness. Just like BlacBlack Sigatoka the plant fungus has always been there but But government failed to take measures to contain the impact

    • The Real Facts
      July 8, 2015

      People must learn to take charge of their health. I reside in Ontario and I do not depend on any government to help me health-wise.
      Do you know even the doctors who prescribe medication and the pharmacists that dispense them get sick and die? :lol: This should tell us much.
      The saying, “God help those who help themselves.” He gave us a life and He expects that we will take care of it. I do believe that God will hold us accountable if we fail to take care of our health.
      It is our life and we should take care of it especially when we are warned over and over again and for years.
      You are a smart one. May you continue to enjoy good health and have a long life. :)

  31. Bob
    July 7, 2015

    I grew up in an environment that tried hard to emulate the Dominica Grammar School motto, does anybody in that school practice it. We have lost a generation since independence to a total lack of discipline. Little direction for the top. So goes the top so goes the country. Mens sana incorporo sano. A strong mind in a strong body.

  32. letty
    July 7, 2015

    Dr. Darroux sounds very inept and incomptent

    • John Paul
      July 7, 2015

      He cannot say anything that will make Skeritt look inept so He have to be the one who looks inept

    • Titiwi
      July 8, 2015

      Dr. Darroux is a very good doctor, I remember the people of Grandbay did not want govt. to move him from there. But a good doctor is not necessarily a good manager or even a politician. I sometimes feel Dr. Darroux is like a fish out of water and get the impression he is not entirely comfortable in that role.

  33. Zandoli
    July 7, 2015

    Blame the lazy doctors in Dominica who are only concerned about treating ailments than treating people.

    I live in North America and my doctor routinely monitors my health. Throughout the year I do various blood tests to monitor my vials – liver, kidney, prostate, blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, platelets. My doctor measures and records my weight at every visit (and I am not overweight).

    That is what the doctors should promote instead of only writing prescriptions for specific ailments.

    • Skerrit's Pawhen
      July 8, 2015

      You learned a few things since you live in the USA the doctors do the same here don’t they? re visit us. I can do the same for you for less. lol!
      Lizard ! first you stole a doctor’s pen name of years gone by. Next we know & do all that here so why did you post ur crap? politics aside.

    • Titiwi
      July 8, 2015

      Zandoli, there is nothing from stopping people doing that in Dominica. Let me tell you, I have a check up like that every year, right here in Dominica. Yes, I pay for it but it is much more affordable than in the U.S.A. and I rather spend some of my money on that than fast food and endless partying. It is a question of priorities my friend.

      • zandoli
        July 8, 2015

        @Titiwi…that being the case, why are we seeing that explosion in the NCDs in Dominica to the extent that by the time it is discovered, a lot of people have done damage to their bodies?

        You may be doing that, but that is the exception.

        Here is my point: if the people are not as knowledgeable, the medical profession should be promoting that. They need to be proactive. That is not what is happening in DA.

        I know someone who was just diagnosed as being diabetic and she only found out when she visited a doctor here in North America on vacation. Why wasn’t it caught by her family doctor in Dominica? And she is not the only one.

        You guys can keep denying the truth as much as you want, but that does not change the facts.

        Facts are stubborn things, they don’t change.

    • Skerrit's Pawhen
      July 9, 2015

      More crap Z don’t the same happenin on continental US?
      Did she visit her MD in DA for thirst fatigue polyuria etc? did she go in 4 a general check or a specific issue?If she went in for the flu? what do you expect? Next U will tell us about docs waste test in DAMan you don’t have a clue what U are talking about. You are like Skerrit & LL combined.
      wholly out of touch with reality.Don’t touch topics u are not knowledgable about .
      My word of advise to U. You mean well but not informed.As a lay person make ur comments but be logical as there will be greater persons with training and know how who will make U look & sound like doodoo.

  34. %
    July 7, 2015

    These gluttons in government cannot help.
    They go as far as Morocco to over eat.
    Just look at their pictures.Ready to explode.
    REAL DEADLY VOLCANOES!
    Gang of bad leaders!
    Salisbury need farm access road,so that Dominicans are provided with healthy local foodS.

    • Skerrit's Pawhen
      July 9, 2015

      Peepip stands out like DA not how tall she standsbut obese he stands. Who is going to inherit the millions peepip? We know who will 4 Medard lol

  35. Watcher
    July 7, 2015

    This level of incompetence requires Heads to roll in that Ministry of( ill) Health. Managed by all those political square pegs in round holes from the Prime Minister down.Let them deal with the Tsunami the created.
    It is criminal to be so incompetent and ineffective; not even able to stem the tide and stabilize our Primary Health Care System that she helped to establish. .She must be shuddering with disappoinmentt and fear to come face to face with these realities.

  36. Blessed
    July 7, 2015

    Healthcare in Domonica is a bleak picture….people are dying because of illnesses that can be controlled but becauseof the lack of care and attention, the lack of what is needed to care, the lack of expertise to plan…..the stupid politics…the use of persons working in the wrong places………..the sacking and demotion of the good and committed workers to the cause. I am not hearing anything of Primary healthcare for the past 3 or so months……there was a well qualified dedicated young lady doing her best in so many ways and posts in the ministry of health she was demoted and replaced by another who knows nothing of primary healthcare. Why Mr.Minister, why? Why should the one who did the work be replaced by one who couldn’t, why is the one who can do the jobs and make a difference be exempted from the line of work? Why? why? why?…..where is that nice doctor who held the fort and made a difference already in the ministry of health, at the primary health care level?

  37. Blessed
    July 7, 2015

    Thanks Dr.Ettienne for telling the truth, and as you may have noticed Dr.Darroux cannot help either. Stupid people!!!!primary healthcare what Mr. Minister? its not prevention anymore in Dominica, prevention is for a new born country not a country full of chronic diseases….it’s care time sir, care time…..you need a plan of action to care for the people who are already ill…they sick already didn’t you hear the Director of PAHO, dominican share the statistics???????

    • Loud Voice
      July 8, 2015

      There is a need for both, care for those already I’ll but prevention is key to ensure the tide do not continue.

  38. fantastic4
    July 7, 2015

    Doc we will not listen to you, you are Dominican. If it was a blue eye foreigner we would hop and skip and leap to higher health. The young mothers will still stuff their kids bags with sweat drinks; and chips and pizza and fries and fried chicken for their snack; the young women and young men will still drink like is juice they drinking. went to a funeral yesterday and there it is young men with absolutely no respect for themselves much less for others they are in the cemetery with their bottle in hand drinking rum while the burial ceremony is going on. Ever look at the menu at the hospital Doc it will drive you nuts; a set of fatty and oily and process foods. This country has no leadership it has no direction it seem to have no purpose end of story.

    • The Real Facts
      July 7, 2015

      I do not think everyone shares your sentiments about not listening to her. Everyone better listen to her for their own good.
      In some cases with proper nutrition, it is not too late to reverse certain illnesses or stabilize them.
      Today, we have more health information than previously, thanks also to internet, research and people as Dr. Etienne
      We know some bad health habits are hard to break and that some diseases could be avoided especially at a young age. I hope those who heard her and read about what she has stated will take note; also, as one informs another.
      Dr. Etienne is well-versed in health matters. Her visit to her homeland, Dominica was not in vain. She cares!

  39. ebeh weh
    July 7, 2015

    DLP care less about medicals. Rather than all they concern about is their pocket. Instead of spending millions in campaign why not in health. God will save Dominica one day. Alah magway sa.

    • Always Grateful
      July 7, 2015

      Dominicans should not depend on any government to look after what they choose to eat and drink.
      Stop gouging yourselves on KFC and pizza and instead go back to natural foods and fresh fruit juices.
      Cook a nice fish broth instead of gobbling down macaroni and cheese which is loaded with salt, fat and chemicals. Stew or bake your chicken instead of frying it in unhealthy oils. It is also cheaper to eat home cooked meals than buy fast foods. Leave the car at home and walk. Great for your health and will cut down on traffic congestion.
      So you see, there are many small ways Dominicans can help preserve their health and hopefully stay away from the hospital.
      Dominica is known as the Nature Island – let’s get closer to nature & eat food grown in our gardens and fished from the abundance of water which surrounds us.

  40. Ma Moses
    July 7, 2015

    Govt. begins to understand? After all those years government lbegins to understand. I feel so exasperated by that. You only have to look at mr. Skerrit himself, Dr. McInbtyre, whos button is nearly popping off his jacket. Austrie, who’s neck is barely visible any longer Emanuelle Nanton to name just a few prominent govt. figures, not excluding Dr. Darroux himself to see that they are unhealthily overweight. With the influence they have they could set an example. Yes, as especially mr. Skerrit knows appearance is very important because that is why GIS are very selective in what photo they select to go with a press release. Please gentlemen, set an example in all areas.

    • Jah Youth
      July 7, 2015

      What about the Permanent Secretary.What example is that??
      Leadership is indeed everything.

      • %
        July 8, 2015

        You are so right…. These are the examples we have. WE ARE IN TROUBLE IN THIS FAILED STATE!

      • July 8, 2015

        Not just our Permanent Secretary of Health. Overweight and obesity is all around us. Dr. Etienne herself can start losing some weight. What about Dr. Shillingford Rickets. And the list goes on, …

    • July 7, 2015

      Dr. Etienne’s warning is very timely, but we cannot pretend not to have noticed the inexorable march toward comfortable obesity in Dominica, even among the educated. Bulging bellies are still de rigueur in 2015 among prominent doctors, most nurses, government officials & media personalities.

      Is there even a resident dietitian on staff at Princess Margaret? Since Mrs. Lambert left government service, the incidence of these avoidable diseases has increased exponentially. Although being thick is the cultural preference, if only because of the dire health consequences involved, most people would walk the healthier route if they knew the way.

      This is where government assistance would be critical to halt our descent into a disease-riddled nation. To that end, I suggest the government sponsor professionally-led Health & Wellness clubs throughout our villages. Not only wld such club professionals teach basic nutrition & exercise modalities, but cooking methods and behavior…

  41. exit
    July 7, 2015

    Doctor this government DON’T care!! Marigot Hospital close, how are thse folks to know what their blood pressure, diabetes or cholesterol status is? What was once known as primary health care is now known as NO Health Care; NOt Yes WE CARE, Its We Don’t D**n CARE!!
    Thanks for telling this lazy government the truth but they so lazy nothing will change or if it does it will be for the worse!!
    Citizens, pay heed and do the best in living a healthy life style. Stop eating the junk and other foods that will do harm to you. Get back to your farms! Demand your roads to the farm!!
    –DLP = Dominica Lazy Party!!

  42. Lang Mama
    July 7, 2015

    Lang Mama doh eat Pizza ,their fry chicken imported juice and chemical loaded import.
    If Karrissa pay check was signed by the government of Dominica she would most likely have to put some water in the wine and not make them inept look so bad.
    So is the abandonment of agriculture a culprit or a victim of bad policies.yahoo
    Also young people get off the smart phone and gadgets get smarter than the phones and exercise, get physical gor uour well being.

    • The Real Facts
      July 7, 2015

      There are various healthy pizzas which you can also make at your home. Homemade is my thing. This is not to say we cannot treat ourselves at restaurants or take-out once in a while.
      Where I reside, you can also get vegetarian pizzas. Do those restaurants and take-out outlets in D/ca not provide same?
      Furthermore, you have internet services and a computer, you could Google such recipes and you will see how many healthy ones there are which you could make at home or purchase. Hopefully, the outlets sell nutritious ones. If not, whenever you feel like it and have the time, make your own. At least you know what ingredients you used and how it is prepared.

      • Just Looking On...
        July 8, 2015

        So why do we have to eat pizzas, especially if battling diabetes??? The processed flour and sugar is what clogs up our system. What happened to the natural foods Dominica, the Nature Island can produce? Since when has pasta & pizza become a Dominican staple?
        It’s that same Internet which is leading to the bad diets being adopted by Dominicans. Just so you are aware, obesity and the resulting illnesses of diabetes and hypertension are epidemic in the developed countries like the US and Canada. Dominicans need not follow their eating habits – not when we have access to fresh food, water and air. Go back to the land my people!

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