Over 4,000 Living with Diabetes in VI
Minister for Health Vincent O. Wheatley has warned that an estimated 4,000-plus people in the Virgin Islands are living with diabetes, many undiagnosed, in remarks marking World Diabetes Day 2025. The Health Ministry is expanding prevention, early detection and treatment programmes across the Territory, urging all residents to get screened and adopt healthier lifestyles.
The Government of the Virgin Islands says more than 4,000 people in the Territory are estimated to be living with diabetes, many of whom may not yet know it. The figure was revealed by Minister for Health and Social Development, Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9), in a message delivered on World Diabetes Day 2025, observed on Friday, November 14.
This year’s global theme, "Diabetes Across Life Stages," highlights that the condition affects people of all ages and backgrounds and calls for a coordinated, life-course response. "Diabetes remains one of the most significant health challenges affecting our Territory and the wider Caribbean," Hon Wheatley said, adding that Type 2 diabetes is largely preventable through daily choices such as healthy eating, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding tobacco.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development says it is intensifying efforts to prevent diabetes, improve early detection and ensure fair access to treatment across the BVI. Planned and ongoing measures include expanded community-based programmes such as BVI Moves, stronger primary health care services for timely diagnosis and follow-up, and ensuring consistent availability of essential medicines and insulin at health facilities.
Education and prevention are central to the ministry’s strategy. Officials pointed to tools like the BVI Eat Well Guide and the Red Loud Campaign to promote healthy eating and awareness. The government also intends to support people living with diabetes through counselling, nutrition guidance and self-management programmes that span childhood, working-age life and older adulthood.
The Minister urged every resident to be screened for diabetes and related risk factors: blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol. Early detection can prevent serious complications and make treatment more effective. "I encourage every resident, regardless of age, to get screened so that you are aware of your blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and other important health indicators," Hon Wheatley said, calling on families, schools, churches and community groups to champion healthier choices.
Health officials advise residents to contact their local primary health care centre or community outreach programme for screening and information on lifestyle support. The Government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that care, medicines and support remain available and affordable for all those affected in the Virgin Islands.
Primary source: VINO