Radhica De Silva
Senior Multimedia Reporter
radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt
Health Minister Dr Lackram Bodoe is calling on corporate Trinidad and Tobago to introduce sports and recreation programmes for employees as a way to promote a healthier nation.
He made the call while speaking to reporters after the opening of the South West Regional Health Authority’s Sports Day and Family Fiesta. The biennial event recognises teamwork and commitment among healthcare workers.
More than 4,000 employees participated. Teams represented departments and institutions including San Fernando General Hospital, Point Fortin Hospital, wardsmaids, Princes Town District Health Facility, Siparia District Health, medical orderlies, medical health records, nutrition and dietetics, human resource and engineering, and the Cancer Centre of Trinidad and Tobago South and New Horizons.
The event included novelty races, food, and activities for all ages.
Addressing the issue of noncommunicable diseases and obesity, Dr Bodoe said events like these provide important support for medical workers who serve the population daily.
“Sports and family events are very important, not only for our own health and for the community but also for our own mental well-being, and I will continue to support and encourage these events,” he said.
He added that families should also engage in sports. “Obesity is a big problem we intend to address, especially childhood obesity, and this is one of the avenues to encourage children and young adults to engage in sports,” he said.
He said noncommunicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension are a burden on the health system. “This government is focused on these issues and events like these can help,” he added.
He said corporate Trinidad and Tobago should also support sports. “It is important in view of the challenges the economy is facing,” Dr Bodoe added.
Childhood obesity is a major public health issue, with one in four primary school children classified as overweight or obese. Experts link this to poor dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, and limited physical activity.
Dr Bodoe said promoting physical activity in both workplace and community settings can help reduce the burden of NCDs and build a culture of wellness across all sectors of society.
The winner of the marchpast was Human Resource & Engineering, which portrayed Calypso Fiesta. The Ole Mas contender We Too Own Way also attracted applause as they took jabs at former Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh, holding up a placard with the words: “Terrence Hop Off the Team.”