Health Ministry steps up NCD prevention campaign

The Health Ministry, in collaboration with Stride 592, on Saturday hosted a wellness walk at Guyana Friendship Park in Region Three (Essequibo Islands -West Demerara) as part of activities to mark Caribbean Wellness Day 2026.

The event, themed, “Our Mind, Our Body, Our Wellness,” attracted scores of participants who walked from the western side of the park to the eastern side before returning to the starting point.
The event, according to a social media post by the ministry, focused on promoting healthier lifestyles and raising awareness about the prevention of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Addressing participants, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony said Caribbean Wellness Day provides an opportunity to raise awareness about NCDs and the measures people can take to prevent or delay their onset.
He stressed the importance of regular physical activity and healthier food choices in reducing the risk of developing NCDs.
Anthony also pointed to what he described as growing interest in physical activity across Guyana, with more people incorporating exercise into their routines through walking in community parks and recreational walks across the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge.
He encouraged citizens to make physical activity a regular part of their lives, noting that wellness should extend beyond activities held to mark Caribbean Wellness Day.
Nutrition booths were also established at the venue, where participants received information on healthy eating and nutrition. Healthy snacks and beverages were provided as part of the activity.
Representatives from the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Natural Resources Ministry, Guyana Defence Force and other organisations participated in the activity.

Caribbean Wellness Day is observed annually across the region to promote healthy living and encourage individuals, families and communities to take steps to improve their physical and mental well-being.