By: Dr Carla Barnett
September 15, 2026
This year’s theme “Our Mind. Our Body. Our Wellness. Empowering Caribbean Youth”, is a timely reminder that wellness is not only the absence of illness. It is the result of daily care and attention to our mental, physical and social well-being, and a shared responsibility to create the conditions in which everyone can thrive.
In our Region, where non-communicable diseases (NCDs) accounted for approximately 75 per cent of all deaths in 2024, the challenge is especially urgent. These diseases are often perceived as illnesses of adulthood, yet the risks begin early in life and are increasingly visible among young people. Recent analysis in our Region indicates that more than 50 per cent of young adults tend towards being overweight or having elevated blood pressure, 40 per cent consume excessive alcohol, and 60 per cent are physically inactive.
The contributing factors are complex, but the solutions are not beyond our reach. Evidence points to the powerful role of environmental, social, cultural and economic conditions in shaping NCD risk among Caribbean youths. The negative impacts of urbanisation, poverty, unemployment, declining access to healthy food choices and limited health-supporting infrastructure make healthy living more difficult to choose. For young people in vulnerable communities, these pressures can reduce access to spaces, services and opportunities that support physical activity, healthy eating and mental well-being.
Young adults make up about one-quarter of the Caribbean population, and must not be overlooked in ongoing population health screening, prevention and research initiatives. Empowering young people must go beyond encouraging change in behaviour at the individual level. It requires a whole of society approach. In collaboration with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has been advancing the strategic priority of strengthening multisectoral approaches to the surveillance, prevention and control of NCDs, including promoting youth-friendly policies and services, and engaging young people as partners in shaping, implementing and evaluating these responses.
The voice of CARICOM youth matters. The choices made and actions taken by young people today will impact the future of our Region. Young people must be encouraged to continue to speak up for healthy food choices and safe spaces for physical activity. With empowered and engaged youth, the Caribbean can build a healthier and stronger future.
May Caribbean Wellness Day inspire ALL to make healthy lifestyle choices every day!
(The author is the Secretary General of the CARICOM)
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