BahamaHealth members throughout New Providence gathered early Saturday morning to begin the much-anticipated 6-Week Slim-Down Challenge. The unique health initiative is designed to address the problem of obesity which has become a major medical concern both locally and internationally. BahamaHealth, the group health division of Family Guardian Insurance Company, recognised the need to educate its members on the adverse health effects of obesity and promote lifestyle, exercise and dietary changes for weight loss and fitness.
Minister of Health, Dr. Bernard Nottage, gave opening remarks on behalf of his Ministry and applauded BahamaHealth for this important undertaking to help improve the lives and health of Bahamian adults and children.
Mrs Patricia Hermanns, President & CEO of Family Guardian, welcomed Minister Nottage, participants and sponsors to kick-off the 6-Week Challenge and reiterated Family Guardian's commitment to promoting and supporting health initiatives within the community. Mrs Linda Jarrett, Vice President of Family Guardian's Group Division with responsibility for BahamaHealth, and a dynamic team of BahamaHealth staff members, respected healthcare providers and experts in nutrition and exercise have put together an educational, fun-filled, supportive programme spanning seven Saturdays. "A major feature of the BahamaHealth product is preventive care, and we have taken this to another level by introducing a long-term educational initiative that will provide an informative and entertaining environment for our members to work toward improved health, with ongoing events planned for the future," says Mrs Jarrett.
Statistics indicate that an alarming number of Bahamian adults, and even children, are obese. The Bahamas is not alone; the US and Europe are equally concerned with the high incidence of obesity and its associated serious health risks, including hypertension, diabetes and cancer. Modern lifestyles and dietary habits are seen as the major contributors to the growing medical problem.
BahamaHealth's Medical Director, Dr. Kirtland Culmer, notes, "Obesity is perhaps the most pervasive medical problem faced by medical providers today. It is a common condition in any patient population in countries with a western diet and lifestyle. There are many complications associated with obesity and the importance of prevention of obesity from the cradle to adulthood cannot be overly stressed."
BahamaHealth's 6-Week Slim-Down Challenge is a novel approach to the problem of obesity. Planners determined that a long-term programme would serve participants better than a one-day seminar. Beginning September 16 and continuing through October 28, BahamaHealth members will begin their Saturday mornings with a weigh-in, warm-up, and brisk walk. The morning programme continues with cholesterol and glucose testing conducted by representatives from Doctors Hospital and The Walk-In Medical Clinic. Light, healthy refreshments, spot prizes, and presentations by health providers and exercise instructors will keep members motivated throughout the morning.
Among the health experts who have partnered with BahamaHealth is Dr. Kathryn de'Souza of the Sports, Spine & Rehabilitation Clinic, who will lead the Saturday morning exercise routine and group walk. Doctors Kirtland Culmer, Duane Sands, Cyprian Strachan and Carlos Thomas, will address participants on the health issues related to obesity and give direction on weight management and health maintenance.
Nutrition expert Mrs Julia Lee and Chef, Winifred Rolle, will discuss healthy meal plans. Mrs Lydia Ferguson of Weight Watchers will outline dietary measures for weight management and Curves and Bally's Total Gym will demonstrate exercise techniques. Yoga, Pilates and dance will also be showcased as options for weight control and improved health.
Also joining BahamaHealth in the 6-week health initiative are a number of major sponsors including, Bahamasair, American Airlines, Aquapure, Platinum Travel, Premier Travel, Bally's, Micronet, The Armoury Company, Bahamas Bus and Truck, Common-wealth Building Supplies, Dockendale Shipping and Master Technicians. "Many of our sponsors and member companies have joined with us to promote the programme within their own work environments and among their employees.
We are very appreciative of their participation and support by way of providing prizes, refreshments and healthcare supplies to be distributed to our Saturday participants," notes Mrs Jarrett.
BahamaHealth's 6-Week Slim-Down Challenge includes a competitive element; members will vie for exciting prizes to be awarded to participants who achieve weekly and final health goals. "Registration for our programme, which is free of charge to our members, has been outstanding," says Mrs Jarrett.
"We view this event as only the beginning of a long-term commitment to educating our members, and the broader community, on weight management and general good health," she added.
n Courtesy of Anne Higgs
Obesity Challenge