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Contributed by Dr. Aldyth Buckland, CCFP Co-Chair on the CCFP-JVMA One Health Jamaica Planning Committee and CCFP Representative on Planetary Health Alliance- Caribbean Regional Hub) Ourplanet“Earth”issick. The natural environment makes development on our planet possible. However, waste, misuse and carelessness towards natural resources by man have impacted people’s quality of life and generated a multitude […]

Dr. C.V. Alert, MB BS, DM, FCCFP. Family Physician. In a breaking news story today two men died after they were attacked by a group of masked assailants in a drive by shooting in a quiet neighborhood last night. They were rushed to the hospital where some overworked doctors battled courageously, but unsuccessfully, to keep

Dr. C. V. Alert, MB BS, DM, FCCFP.Family Physician. Disease risk factors are characteristics or behaviors that increase a person’s chance of developing a particular disease. Not everyone that has a disease risk factor will develop the disease, and there are some persons who develop a specific disease without having a disease risk factor. That

Dr. C.V. Alert, MB BS, DM. FCCFP. Family Physician. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly evolving field of computer science that aims to create machines that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. AI in medicine and healthcare is rapidly transforming the field by enhancing diagnostics, treatment plans, and patient care. AI algorithms can analyze medical data

Dr. C.V. Alert, MB BS, DM, FCCFP.Family Physician. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the world’s leading cause of death and disability. They include cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and chronic lung disease, many of which can be prevented by reducing risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and unhealthy eating. Hypertension affects approximately 25%

Dr. C.V. Alert MB BS, DM, FCCFP. Family Physician. The term ‘resilience’ primarily reflects the capabilities of a system to absorb and recover from disturbances. Mental health resilience is crucial for effective teamwork in healthcare, and mentally strong doctors are essential for success of any health care system. Mental health resilience is a cornerstone of

Dr. C.V Alert, MB BS, DM. FCCFP.Family Physician. “The truth is that stress doesn’t come from your boss, your kids, your spouse, traffic jams, health challenges, or other circumstances. It comes from your thoughts about your circumstances.”Andrew Bernstein, American Philosopher. Stress is your body and mind’s way of mobilizing you to help you respond successfully

Dr. C.V. Alert, MB BS, DM. Family Physician. Firstweeat,andthenwedoanythingelse. Nutrition plays a significant role in health promotion and in disease prevention and management. To avoid various disease states, advising persons on variety, balance, and moderation of foods, is important in promoting a healthy lifestyle. [Unfortunately, the price of food items is not the focus of

Dr.C.V.Alert,MB,BS,DM. RetiringDirector,HeartandStrokeFoundationofBarbados. Family Physician. World Hypertension Day falls on Saturday,May17,2025. This year’s theme, “MeasureYour Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer,” highlights the importance of regular, precise blood pressure checks and management. How You should Get Involved: The Silent Killer. Hypertension is often referred to as the “silentkillerorsometimesthesilentenemy”because it presents no symptoms yet can lead

Dr. C.V.Alert, MB BS, DM. FCCFP. Family Physician. Did you know that a brisk 20-minute walk can lift your mood as effectively as an hour-long therapy session? Emerging research now reveals that exercise isn’t just about building physical strength—it’s a powerful remedy for mental well-being. In a world where stress and anxiety are mounting, this