In the fourth day of the 2024 Budget Debates, Opposition Member of Parliament (MP), Dr. Karen Cummings, emphasized that Guyana’s escalating struggle against cardiovascular disease has a direct correlation to poverty.
“…Cardiovascular disease is an increasing dynamic due to a higher risk burden of poverty and the presence of a higher number of risk factors as I alluded to,” she stated.
During her address, Dr. Cummings noted that the disease accounts for 34 percent of Guyana’s non-communicable diseases, with notable risk factors such as high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, and alcohol misuse. It is noteworthy that Guyana—akin to other nations, is grappling with the rising costs of nutritious foods like fruits and vegetables.
Last November, President Dr. Irfaan Ali attributed these increases to global cost of living surges, compounded by challenges in agricultural production due to a prolonged dry spell in 2023.
The rise in cardiovascular disease in Guyana was also highlighted last year by renowned Guyanese cardiologist, Dr. Mahendra Carpen. Dr. Carpen had raised concerns about contributing factors to this disease citing poor eating habits, amid the country’s accelerating oil-driven development. As fast-food chains proliferate, offering cheaper alternatives than local markets, Dr. Carpen emphasized moderation and urged a diet rich in nutritious food accompanied by a sustainable exercise routine.
“I’m not saying don’t eat the fast food, but do so in moderation,” the heart surgeon appealed.
Dr. Carpen also co-authored a study, published last year, which revealed Guyana’s alarming cardiovascular disease rates, exceeding the South American average and surpassing Canada’s rates by 2.7 times. It stated that Ischemic heart disease stands as the leading cause of death in Guyana, with hypertensive heart disease ranking fourth.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Cummings, in her budget speech, expressed the opposition’s openness to approaches focusing on promoting physical activity, increasing awareness, and advocating healthy eating for optimal health. She affirmed that, if in government, it would ensure the Ministry of Public Health adopts a behavioral change pathway, emphasizing lifestyle changes and prevention.