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Minister of Social Care, Steve Blackett

The World Alzheimer’s Report 2010 has recommended that Alzheimer’s disease be included on the official list of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs), and this has been endorsed by the Ministry of Social Care.

Minister Steve Blackett made this disclosure today, as he addressed a training seminar hosted by the Barbados Alzheimer’s Association, in collaboration with the National Assistance Board and the National Committee on Ageing, at the Savannah Hotel, Hastings, Christ Church. The event was held to commemorate World Alzheimer’s Day, which is being celebrated today in over 76 countries worldwide.

The Minister stated that "Alzheimer’s Disease is a mental health disorder, but the request for it to be specifically mentioned outside of this category is worthy of consideration, not only because of its growing incidence, but particularly where it intersects with population ageing."

According to Minister Blackett, the recommendation was made to attract a higher level of attention to the disease.

"Alzheimer’s affects all social groups.?? Therefore, it is not only doctors and other health care personnel who need to be educated and updated on these diseases.?? An intensive campaign must be implemented to ensure that all social levels within society are sensitised about the warning signs and nature of this disease," the Minister stressed.

sharifa.medford@barbados.gov.bb

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