Sylvanus Thompson | Mobilising the Jamaican diaspora in the fight against non-communicable diseases

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) – including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory illnesses – have become the leading cause of death and disability in Jamaica. These conditions account for approximately 70 per cent of all deaths in the country and place a significant burden on families, communities, and the national healthcare system, with the potential to limit national productivity. While the government and local stakeholders are making strides to combat this epidemic, the Jamaican diaspora, estimated at over three million strong, represents a powerful and largely untapped resource in supporting national efforts to prevent and control NCDs across the island.

THE DIASPORA ADVANTAGE

Members of the Jamaican diaspora possess an immense reservoir of financial resources, technical expertise, innovation, and goodwill. Their resources, expertise, and cultural connection uniquely position them to be strategic partners in the fight against NCDs in Jamaica. The diaspora can contribute in a number of ways, including the following:

Health Education and Behaviour Change Communication

Many NCDs are preventable through lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, regular physical activity, and smoking cessation. Diaspora health professionals can collaborate with local organisations to support culturally relevant health education campaigns. Virtual webinars, social media campaigns, and community outreach initiatives focusing on diet, physical activity, smoking cessation, and alcohol moderation can be developed in partnership with Jamaican stakeholders.

Capacity Building and Skills Transfer

Jamaican medical professionals abroad can engage in short-term missions, mentorship or knowledge exchange programmes, thus providing additional training to local practitioners. Furthermore, academic institutions in the diaspora can establish partnerships with Jamaican universities to develop curricula and conduct joint research on NCDs.

Support for Community-Based Interventions

Many NCD risk factors are rooted in social and environmental conditions. Diaspora organizations can support grassroots programs that promote community gardens, wellness clubs, youth fitness, church-based and school-based health programs, and chronic disease self-management.

Technology and Innovation

With increased digital connectivity, the diaspora can support telemedicine, health apps, and virtual support groups. Diaspora entrepreneurs and tech professionals can introduce or partner with local developers to create digital health solutions like mobile apps for blood pressure or glucose monitoring, tele-medicine platforms, and data analytics tools for early detection and surveillance. These tools can help bridge the access gap, particularly in under-served rural areas.

Philanthropy, Resource Mobilisation and Infrastructure Support

Some health facilities in Jamaica lack adequate equipment and supplies to effectively treat NCDs. Diaspora organisations or individuals can work with agencies such as the National Healthcare Enhancement Foundation, to coordinate donations of diagnostic tools, medications, and even mobile clinics. Diaspora-led health missions and partnerships with local health agencies can also provide vital services. While short-term medical missions are helpful, sustainable partnerships and capacity building should remain the focus as strategic investments in community-based health programs can have long-lasting effects.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Jamaican diaspora is more than a source of remittances; it is a vital partner in nation-building. In the face of the growing NCD crisis, their engagement could significantly accelerate Jamaica’s progress toward a healthier population. With structured collaboration, transparent mechanisms, and shared goals, the diaspora can play a pivotal role in transforming the tide of chronic diseases in Jamaica, creating a legacy of wellness for generations to come.

Dr Sylvanus Thompson is chair of the JDTAN Public Health Surveillance and Infectious Diseases Taskforce. Send feedback to columns@gleanerjm.com