Health

In the past month, Belize has experienced a significant rise in respiratory illnesses, including colds, flu, and certain strains of COVID-19. This surge is attributed to seasonal influenza, which is exacerbated by colder and rainier weather conditions that worsen health issues within the population.

November 14, 2024, is World Diabetes Day, a global initiative to raise awareness about diabetes and its impact. In Belize, where an estimated 21,745 individuals are affected by this disease, the observance is particularly significant because diabetes is the fourth leading cause of death in the country. To commemorate this day, the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) launched a campaign titled "Access to Diabetes Care," highlighting the importance of understanding diabetes risk and ensuring timely access to medical information.

The National Breastfeeding Policy 2024-2034, introduced by the Ministry of Health & Wellness, represents a significant update to the policy established 28 years ago. This new program aims to promote breastfeeding on demand and increase the percentage of infants exclusively breastfed for the first six months of their lives, improving breastfeeding practices across the country.

To honor the fighters and those who have lost their battle against cancer, a group of San Pedranos gathered at Central Park on Tuesday, November 12th, for an awareness walk focused on breast cancer. The event included members of the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC), the San Pedro Lions Club, the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II, athletes, and other residents of the island.

On Wednesday, October 30th, Taiwanese Foreign Minister His Excellency Dr. Lin Chia-lung concluded his official visit to Belize with a stop in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. His government is financing the construction of the San Pedro and Caulker General Hospital. During this visit, Dr. Chia-lung, accompanied by his delegation and Taiwan’s Ambassador to Belize, Her Excellency Lily Li-wen Hsu, received a construction site tour to assess the progress. They were also joined by Mayor Gualberto ‘Wally’ Nuñez, Area Representative Honorable Andre Perez, Belize’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Honorable Able Francis Fonseca, and Prime Minister Honorable Dr. John Briceño.

October is recognized as Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising public awareness about cancer and its effects. In honor of this important occasion, Ambergris Hope Hospital hosted an outreach program on Saturday, October 26th, from 10AM to 2PM. The program included distributing educational resources and offering free clinical breast examinations.

Dr. Joshua A. Canul recently completed his master’s degree in Infectious Disease Epidemiology from University College London under the Chevening scholarship. This scholarship was funded by the United Kingdom’s Government International Scholarships Program, specifically through the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office and Partner Organizations. He was awarded the scholarship on September 25, 2023, and completed his studies on September 24, 2024. Chevening Scholarships enable outstanding emerging leaders worldwide to pursue one-year master’s degrees in the United Kingdom. These fully funded scholarships cover flights, accommodation, and fees, allowing recipients to focus on achieving their professional goals and maximizing their experiences.

To promote a healthy lifestyle in the community, Councilor Marina Kay, who oversees Public Health initiatives, has teamed up with the San Pedro Lions Club to organize a Business Health Screening event. This initiative offers essential health services at no cost, including glucose testing, blood pressure monitoring, malaria testing, and flu vaccinations.