The Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit of the Ministry of Health and Human Services proudly observes Caribbean Wellness Week (CWW) from September 13–19, 2025, under the theme: “Engage, Empower, Elevate: Working Together to Improve Health and Well-being for All.”
Caribbean Wellness Week is a regional initiative dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles and rallying communities against the escalating burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, chronic respiratory conditions, and kidney disease. These illnesses are the leading cause of death in the Caribbean, accounting for more than 75% of all lives lost in the region.
The Caribbean faces some of the world’s highest diabetes rates, with nearly one in three adults also living with hypertension. Rising obesity, especially among children, combined with poor diets, inactivity, is fueling premature deaths and placing a heavy economic burden on the region, costing some countries up to 8% of GDP. The Turks and Caicos Islands reflect these challenges, with notable tobacco use and ongoing concerns about heart disease, underscoring the urgent need for prevention and healthier lifestyles.
This year, the Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit is intensifying its efforts to empower individuals and communities through a week of activities that underscore the importance of physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Daily Themes and Activities
- Mindful Monday – Stress management techniques to support mental health
- Tasty Tuesday – Nutrition guidance, healthy recipes, and cooking demonstrations
- Workout Wednesday – Fitness routines to energize the body
- Talk it out Thursday – Advocating for an open conversation on mental health
- Fruit & Flow Friday- Promotes increased consumption of fresh fruits and water for better hydration and overall well-being.
Special Events
- Health Matters Radio Show – RTC Radio Station, September 15 at 10:00 AM
- Senior Exercise Sessions – Sylvia Melhado Aged Care and Rehabilitation Department, Grand Turk, September 16and 18, 3:00–4:00 PM
- Available both in-person and via Zoom to ensure accessibility for seniors across the islands.
- Community Exercise Session – Ball Park, Downtown Providenciales, September 17 at 6:30 PM (in collaboration with the Sports Commission)
“We are facing a growing challenge of preventable diseases that are significantly reducing quality of life in our communities,” said the Minister of Health and Human Services, Hon. Kyle Knowles. “Caribbean Wellness Week is an opportunity for us to engage actively, empower one another with knowledge, and elevate our collective well-being—paving the way toward a healthier, happier Turks and Caicos Islands.”
Dr. Nadia Astwood, Chief Medical Officer, added, “Caribbean Wellness Week is a powerful reminder that health is not just the absence of disease—it is the presence of vitality, resilience, and community support. By engaging in these activities, we not only promote healthier lifestyles but also strengthen prevention, early intervention, and our shared responsibility to tackle non-communicable diseases.”
Families, schools, workplaces, faith groups, and community organizations are encouraged to participate. Join the daily activities, share your wellness journey on social media, and help spark a movement toward better health for all.
Stay connected by following the Ministry’s social media pages for daily tips, updates, and opportunities to participate.
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