Department of Culture Endorses New Health Resource
The Department of Culture has formally endorsed Healing the Caribbean: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Preventing Noncommunicable Diseases by Dr Magdalina Jean‑Louis and invites the public to its launch on Thursday 30 April at 4:45 p.m. at New Mello Moods, Skelton Bay Lot, Fish Bay. According to a Government of the Virgin Islands press release, the book — available in print and digital formats after the launch — aims to translate scientific research into practical, prevention-focused steps to reduce the rising burden of NCDs across the Caribbean.
The Department of Culture has announced its support for a new health resource aimed at tackling noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the Territory. Healing the Caribbean: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Preventing Noncommunicable Diseases, written by Registered Nurse, Midwife and Health Educator Dr Magdalina Jean‑Louis, will be launched in the Virgin Islands on Thursday 30 April at 4:45 p.m. at New Mello Moods, Skelton Bay Lot, Fish Bay, the department said in a Government of the Virgin Islands release.
The government release notes the timing is important as the Caribbean continues to face a rising tide of NCDs. Dr Jean‑Louis’ book is presented as a practical guide that bridges the gap between scientific research and everyday application, emphasising lifestyle changes organised around several key pillars to prevent and manage conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and other chronic illnesses that increasingly affect Caribbean populations.
Deputy Director of Culture Anne Lennard described the publication as an essential resource for the Territory. "The Department congratulates Nurse Jean Louis on the launch of her book which can benefit the local community," Ms Lennard said in the announcement, adding that the guide is intended to educate individuals, communities, healthcare professionals and policymakers on effective strategies to reduce the NCD burden regionally and globally.
Public health authorities across the Caribbean have long highlighted the roles of lifestyle modification, early detection and community-level action in reducing NCD-related illness and deaths. The book aims to translate that guidance into actionable steps that can be adopted at home, in schools, workplaces and other community settings — making it relevant to both health professionals and residents seeking practical prevention advice.
For BVI residents the launch offers an opportunity to hear directly from a local health professional and to engage in conversation about the Territory’s health and heritage. The Department of Culture has invited the public to attend the official launch and to participate in discussions on how community-level action can help stem the rise in chronic disease.
Healing the Caribbean will be available in both print and digital formats. After the launch, copies can be purchased through major retailers including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes and Walmart, and via www.caribbeanbooks.com. For more information about the book or the launch event, the government release lists Dr Jean‑Louis’ contact emails (mjeanlouis01@gmail.com and Linabooks01@gmail.com).
Media and international enquiries may be directed to the Government of the Virgin Islands press contacts provided in the release. The Department said its endorsement reflects a broader commitment to supporting local authors and promoting resources that enhance the well‑being and cultural preservation of the Virgin Islands, and encouraged residents to attend the launch to learn practical steps for improving community health.
Primary source: BVI Government