Study to determine impact of chronic disease in Bermuda

Every year, approximately 58 million of the world’s population will die; 35 million, or more than half, from chronic disease. If we do nothing, by 2015 the death rate will have risen by a further 17 per cent.

We have to take action and take it now. Chronic diseases comprising diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and chronic respiratory disease together, represent the largest cause of death worldwide. To what extent does chronic disease affect Bermuda? We suspect a great deal but do not know exactly how much.

A Ministry of Health and Seniors landmark epidemiology study, due to be rolled out in October this year, will give us those much needed statistics. Partnering with the Ministry in this first-ever, island-wide study of chronic disease are Bermuda Hospitals Board, Bermuda Diabetes Association, Bermuda Heart Foundation (CORE) and Bermuda Cancer and Health. Before we can plan effectively for chronic disease prevention and management, it is essential that we know the extent of the problem. This critically important study has the potential to provide the answers to questions that are required to lobby for change.

More than 2,500 participants will be selected by computer, known as a random selection. Letters will then be sent out by the Ministry of Health and Seniors to those households invited to participate in the study, requesting that they call the telephone number provided to make an initial appointment. This is an exciting opportunity and it is hoped those who are selected will take full advantage of it.

Full health screening

The study is called the STEPS to a Well Bermuda because it involves a number of steps, which together, make up a full health screening for all 2,500 participants. The results will then be collated and analyzed to determine the burden of chronic disease in Bermuda.

n The steps are:

Completion of a questionnaire which will be conducted by a trained interviewer, either in the participant’s home or in an alternative and mutually convenient location.

Collection of information on the participant’s weight, height, waist size and blood pressure. This will also be done in the home or a mutually convenient, alternative location.

Collection of blood samples, to be performed either in the lab at KEMH or in a clinic setting.

So why should Bermuda do this study? This study will provide the framework for change. By doing this study we can find out how many people in Bermuda have or are affected by chronic disease. Once we have this information we can use it to plan programmes that will help prevent chronic disease, manage those with established chronic disease more effectively and prevent or delay complications.

The burden of chronic disease left unchecked has the power to financially cripple Bermuda’s healthcare systems. STEPS to a Well Bermuda is part of a global World Health Initiative. Bermuda has an excellent record when it comes to health initiatives and I am sure this study will be no different. Bermuda can be an example to the rest of the world in respect to health research and policy change.

If you are selected why should you participate? First, this study will give you information about yourself that you may not be aware of and then help guide you, if necessary, in the right direction to make changes. Second, this study will help Bermuda and everyone living in Bermuda, regardless of whether they are selected or not. The information from this study will assist the policy makers in making the appropriate changes to make Bermuda a well Bermuda.

Third, your participation will help the world. The information from this study is private and confidential. No one will have access to a participant’s name or identifying factors. Participants will be given a number for identification purposes. So if you are lucky enough to be selected for this important and exciting study, please call in right away and an appointment will be arranged for you.