World Diabetes Day is observed annually on November 14. It was started in 1991 by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in response to concerns about the growing threat to health posed by diabetes. It is the primary global awareness campaign focusing on diabetes. The Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) lists diabetes as the third leading cause of death among males...

The Law Reform (Zones of Special Operations) (Special Security and Community Development Measures) Law is aimed at curbing the nation’s crime through security force occupation of vulnerable communities. It also aims to preserve human rights during the period of occupation. Here are some important points about Zones of Special Operations (ZOSO): • An area may not be arbitrarily declared a...

Cervical cancer is most commonly caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Any woman can develop cervical cancer, but certain risk factors can put one at greater risk for developing the disease. Some of these are smoking, having multiple sex partners, and having given birth to three or more children. To prevent this type of cancer,...

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed in October each year in countries across the world to increase attention and support for the awareness, early detection and treatment of this disease. Each year, there are about 1.38 million new cases and 458,000 deaths from breast cancer. It is the most common cancer in women anywhere in the world. Women who are...

World Heart Day is observed on September 29 annually. It was started in 2000 to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke, the world’s leading causes of death. It is estimated that combined they cause over 17 million deaths worldwide each year. Risk factors that may lead to heart disease and stroke include poor diet and lack of physical activity....

Groups from various sectors in Jamaica will be participating in beach clean-up activities. Why not organise your own beach clean-up for September 16 or at any other time throughout the year? Here are some tips for planning a beach clean-up: 1. Visit the location proposed for the activity to determine its suitability. 2. Consider two factors when choosing allocation: a....

A 2014 study by the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention shows that students who are undernourished may have lower math scores and poorer cognitive function than other children. On the other hand, students who consume a balanced diet tend to perform well academically and cognitively. Recommendations from the Ministry of Health (MOH) are that children be given a daily...