Barbados, a Caribbean nation with a population of approximately 287,000 as of 2019, boasts a life expectancy of 79.2 years, with males averaging 77.8 years and females 80.5 years. The country provides universal health care through a network of polyclinics and the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Bridgetown.
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| Barbados health figures |
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
NCDs are the leading cause of mortality in Barbados. In 2019, the age-adjusted mortality rate from NCDs was 477 per 100,000 population, with higher rates in men (533.4) compared to women (430.9).
Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs): In 2019, Barbados reported 905 deaths attributed to CVDs. The age-standardized mortality rate places the country in the bottom 40% globally. Notably, there are high rates of diabetes and physical inactivity among females, contributing to the CVD burden.
Cancer: Prostate cancer remains a significant concern among men, with an adjusted mortality rate of 59.9 per 100,000 in 2019. For women, breast cancer was the leading cause of cancer mortality, with a rate of 35.3 per 100,000.
Diabetes and Hypertension: The prevalence of diabetes mellitus increased from 9.1% in 2000 to 12.2% in 2014. Conversely, arterial hypertension prevalence among adults decreased from 26.1% in 2000 to 24.4% in 2015.
Mental Health
Mental health disorders contribute significantly to the disease burden in Barbados. Among the elderly, neurocognitive disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease, account for over 50% of the mental health burden around age 80, increasing to over 70% after age 85.
Obesity
Obesity is a growing public health issue. Approximately 34.7% of adult women and 17.1% of adult men were living with obesity, rates higher than the regional average for both sexes.
Maternal and Child Health
Barbados has made strides in maternal and child health. The infant mortality rate was 11.057 per 1,000 live births in 2021. Efforts continue to improve care-seeking behaviors for acute respiratory infections and other childhood illnesses.
Health Infrastructure
The country maintains a robust health infrastructure with a high ratio of healthcare professionals to the population. Universal health care is provided through eight polyclinics, five geriatric hospitals, and the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Private medical clinics, such as the Sandy Crest Medical Centre and FMH Emergency Medical Clinic, complement public health services.
Health Challenges and Initiatives
Despite achievements, Barbados faces challenges, including the high prevalence of NCDs and mental health disorders. The government has implemented policies targeting risk factors such as physical inactivity and unhealthy diets. Notably, out of eight key CVD-related policies, Barbados has implemented six.
In conclusion, while Barbados has made significant progress in various health indicators, ongoing efforts are essential to address the persistent challenges posed by NCDs, mental health issues, and obesity to further enhance the health and
well-being of its population.
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