Photos: Bermuda Health Expo At City Hall
Minister of Health, Seniors and Environment Jeanne Atherden opened today’s [Apr 7] Health Expo at City Hall in Hamilton, referencing the importantance of Public Health Week and World Health Day, and noting this year’s theme of ‘Creating a Healthier Island 2030.’
Minister Atherden said, “This week, April 6 – 12, is observed as Public Health Week and today is World Health Day. There have been many public health successes throughout the years such as childhood immunizations, motor vehicle safety, control of infectious diseases, safer and healthier foods and reduction in smoking prevalence to name a few.
“We want to continue the public health successes as we face the growing trend of non-communicable diseases [NCDs] such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer. However, we can only achieve real success against reducing the prevalence of these conditions with the help of the community.
“This year, the theme of Public Health Week is ‘Creating a Healthier Island 2030.’ NCDs continue to be the leading causes of death and are strongly related to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity and smoking. That is why we have events such as this Health Expo to bring awareness of public health issues.
“You may have heard of the Well Bermuda National Health Promotion Strategy in which health partners are working collaboratively to optimize the Health of Bermuda residents. It is important to know your numbers for health and what you can do to prevent or reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases.”
.
“Too often we put off simple screenings, which would help us make positive lifestyle choices in support of personal wellness and ultimately a better quality of life. The Ministry of Health, Seniors & Environment is committed to promoting wellness in the community. The opportunity provided by observances like Public Health Week allow our team of dedicated healthcare professionals to bring the message of healthy living to the wider community.
“The positive lifestyle choices begin in our young people and how we encourage them to eat healthy foods, exercise regularly and pursue activities that promote healthy lives. Among our working population we must emphasize a life / work balance that reduces the stresses of our modern society and promotes healthy options as the first choice in diet and other areas.
“And with our seniors, we are committed to golden years of dignity, complimented by access to quality healthcare and providing every opportunity for this important group to continue their valued contribution to our society.
“I am very pleased to open today’s Expo. The Well Bermuda Partners here today represent a wide range of helping agencies. Please take the time to visit each area – there are various screenings and informational booths on hand.
“Thank you to the Ministry team who organized this important event and thank you also to our key partners who are participating in making today a success. Special thanks to all of you who have come out today. You are the community that we want to see become healthier and live longer – 2030 will be here before we know it.”
Click to enlarge photos:
