World Health Day- “Our Planet, Our Health”

#TurksandCaicos, April 15, 2022 – World Health Day is celebrated annually on April 7th. “In the face of the current pandemic, a polluted planet, and an increasing incidence of diseases, the theme for World Health Day 2022 is Our Planet, Our Health. This call from PAHO, the WHO, and partners, presents a unique opportunity for a green and healthy recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, that puts the health of individuals and the planet at the center of actions and fosters a movement to create societies focused on well-being” (Pan American Health Organization).

The Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit would like to encourage everyone to be more aware of the impact we make on the planet as individuals. Each of us can make a decision to positively or negatively impact our environment. We must think about the future generations to come, and what will become of our planet if we dump waste indiscriminately, recklessly cut down trees, litter our beaches and streets, dump chemicals into our water streams…

The World Health Organization has emphasized that non-communicable diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and cancer, have collectively contributed to over 70% of all deaths globally, an alarming 41 million people! Of this 41 million, 15 million of the deaths were of persons between 30 and 69.

The Minister of Health and Human Services, Hon. Jamell Robinson, in his remarks regarding World Health Day stated that “The Turks and Caicos Islands are at risk of more frequent hurricanes of increased intensities, simply due to environmental threats of climate change, contributed by human impacts. Flooding from increased rainfall can be intensified due to littering and indiscriminate dumping of waste in our oceans or locations near to our water courses that eventually end up in our seas. Diseases in our communities are rising due to physical inactivity, instances of alcohol abuse and unhealthy diets.”

Hon. Robinson also encouraged the people of Turks and Caicos “to keep our environment clean and take pride in our surroundings by not littering, use the bins are nearby, take your waste back to your vehicle for discarding at home if waste bins are not available outdoors. Engage in walking, riding your bike, swimming, to increase your physical movements. Get your blood pressure and blood sugar tested frequently. Eat less processed food and more fruits, vegetables and ground foods.”

The Minister reiterated that “The TCI is beautiful by nature and it is our responsibility to ensure our beautiful environment is protected and preserved, not just for our generation but the generations to come!”

In commemoration of World Health Day, the Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit would like to remind everyone that our health and our planet are our responsibility. We can make simple lifestyle changes that can collectively cause a significant positive impact in our country and in the world.