Rising STI and Diabetes Rates Prompt Health Push in Tobago
Calder Hall, Tobago – Alarming increases in both sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and diabetes cases have prompted a new health and wellness campaign in Tobago. The concerns were highlighted by THA Secretary of Health, Wellness and Social Protection, Dr. Faith Brebnor, at the launch of the “Play Mas, Live Well” initiative on September 29th at the Hochoy Charles Administrative complex.
dr. Brebnor stressed the importance of extensive health,stating,”We need all of us – to really be healthy – head to toe,and head to toe includes those…private parts.” She emphasized a need to revisit open conversations surrounding sexual health, recalling a time when public discourse on HIV and available treatments were more prevalent.
“We really are seeing increased rates of almost all of the STIs throughout the island,” Dr. Brebnor revealed. “We stopped talking about STIs and about consent, and now we’re seeing the numbers rise again.”
Beyond STIs, the Health Secretary also expressed concern over a surge in diabetes diagnoses, notably among younger adults. She cited data indicating HbA1c (blood glucose) readings exceeding 14% in individuals in their thirties – a level indicative of long-term, uncontrolled high blood sugar
