Jamaicans Buying into Health Ministry’s #KnowYourNumbers Campaign – Dr. Tufton

Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, says Jamaicans are buying into the Ministry’s #KnowYourNumbers campaign, which encourages persons to monitor key indicators such as blood sugar, pressure and cholesterol levels, and body mass index, among other vital metrics.

Dr. Tufton says more than 500 people have undergone multiple medical tests since the initiative commenced, noting that “when you look at what it means for some people, it’s literally lifesaving.”

He was speaking with journalists during the campaign’s 11th road show at Bargain Village Plaza in May Pen, Clarendon, on Friday (May 17), where hundreds of residents came out to receive various health checks.

These included dental checks and body mass index tests.

Dr. Tufton said the test results are showing either existing or potentially extreme cases requiring emergency care, pointing out that the Ministry, through the #KnowYourNumbers initiative, is reaching out to people and creating opportunities for health education.

“[This campaign] is helping people to respond, because some of them could [for example] be on the verge of a stroke. [But] we are [also] saying to Jamaicans [that] besides events like these, take time to go to the health centre and know your numbers. Do your annual check-up, because too many of us are walking around with conditions and are not taking them seriously until we get a stroke or heart attack, and that’s what we want to avoid,” he emphasised.

Resident of New Bowens in Clarendon, Bobbett Morse, who said she previously delayed going to the doctor to her check-ups, informed that she decided to attend the road show because of the many health services which were being offered during the event.

“I got my blood pressure, sugar, cholesterol, HIV, eyes tested and teeth cleaned; and I got a letter to take to the hospital for further eye tests,” she informed.

The event also saw Dr. Tufton engaging attendees in a wide range of other activities, including testing their knowledge on some of the services offered by the Ministry.

There were also information sessions on preparing healthy meals and aerobics exercises, among other engagements.

The final stop for the #KnowYourNumbers tour will be in Portmore, St. Catherne.