January 2011
Hypertension (high
blood pressure) is a major risk factor in the development of cardiovascular and
cerebrovascular disease such as heart attack and stroke. Since the 1930’s
studies have been carried out in the USA, Britain and the Caribbean that show
significant ethnic variations in the rates of hypertension with people of
African descent having the highest prevalence rates. Various theories have
emerged to explain why such differences occur and include genetic, increased
salt sensitivity, dietary and lifestyle factors.
The severity of this health problem becomes apparent in Caribbean islands such as Barbados where the estimated population of Black people is 93%. In November 2010 Professor Trevor Hassell, Chairman of the National Commission for Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases, proposed that 54,000 adults or 20% of the population in Barbados had hypertension.
Dr. Sonia Peter is a lecturer and researcher at the Barbados Community College. Dr. Peter is also the President for the Caribbean chapter of the Society for Economic Botany. I talk to her about the health issues facing Barbados and the growing interest in natural remedies to address these problems.
The severity of this health problem becomes apparent in Caribbean islands such as Barbados where the estimated population of Black people is 93%. In November 2010 Professor Trevor Hassell, Chairman of the National Commission for Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases, proposed that 54,000 adults or 20% of the population in Barbados had hypertension.
Dr. Sonia Peter is a lecturer and researcher at the Barbados Community College. Dr. Peter is also the President for the Caribbean chapter of the Society for Economic Botany. I talk to her about the health issues facing Barbados and the growing interest in natural remedies to address these problems.
The figures proposed by Professor Hassell highlight a very serious healthcare issue in Barbados. Which age group and gender appear to be more at risk?
Based on papers written by Dr Anselm Hennis of the Chronic Disease Research Centre in Barbados the incidence of hypertension increases with age and was evident at approximately 55% in a sample population under study. At age groups over 40 years the incidence is significantly higher for women than men.
What are your opinions as to why this is?
Based on the evidence to date and the familial association in the prevalence of these chronic diseases, I am leaning towards a genetic association that may be exacerbated by lifestyle.
How are people in Barbados being educated about the causes, risk factors and treatment of cardiovascular disease?
There are vibrant societies made up of professionals and those suffering from the diseases, or family members, which engage the public on an annual basis regarding the symptoms, early diagnosis, treatment and management. Regular campaigns promote testing for early diagnosis with free clinics offered at central locations. Nutritionists work with the polyclinics to educate patients and they also provide advice through the media.
What measures are the government taking to deal with the increasing health issues caused by cardiovascular disease?
Government supports the programs at the polyclinics and offers support to the societies when or wherever possible. Internal medicine department at the QEH (Queen Elizabeth Hospital) is working steadfastly on in house and out-patient management. However, I am not directly linked to health care sector and an internist would be better able to provide this perspective.
In your opinion what are the success rates of these measures?
Based on reports, there are still challenges in the public education regarding the chronic diseases as evidenced by the national health care bill for hypertension and diabetes. However, the importance of research in establishing the risk factors must be underscored as this could lead to better detection methods and treatment for those at high risk.
Why was the Caribbean Chapter of the Society for Economic Botany (SEB) set up?
The main chapter of the SEB has as its theme ‘Plants and People’. The society promotes research activity dedicated to preserving the heritage associated with the use of plants for food, shelter, medicine and craft. Special interest is given to indigenous heritage practices and related economic activity. The Caribbean has a wealth of heritage practice associated with species of indigenous flora being a biodiversity hotspot. This provides an opportunity to further explore the Caribbean and African diaspora story regarding the interrelationship with plant biodiversity.
Who is involved within the Caribbean Chapter of the SEB?
I am currently serving as President of the Caribbean chapter. The list of members is now growing but includes agronomist, chemists, agriculturalists, artisans to date.
What work is being carried out by the Caribbean Chapter of the SEB to address the increasing cardiovascular disease rates in Barbados?
In collaboration with the National Science Council, a database of plant species used on the island has been established based on a survey of rural communities. This database is being analysed and plants selected for further study. Of special interest is the use of plants for ‘cooling teas’ which, on preliminary investigations, have been shown to be rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are implicated in the mitigation of age related diseases including cardiovascular. A study is being conducted on the link between longevity and the use of these ‘cooling teas’. It is being hypothesised that medicinal teas stave off the cellular deterioration that occurs on aging and hence promote better health. This seems to be supported by the centenarian population on the island which is second only to Japan in terms of number per capita. This research can serve to inform further research or, hopefully, in the development of nutraceutical agents.
