St Lucia

The Executive and members of the SLMDA remain devastated by the sudden and tragic loss of one of its long-time members: Dr. Trona Bennett - Obstetrician/Gynaecologist.  An active member of the association over that past two decades that she has practiced in St. Lucia, Dr. Bennett was well respected within her field and a pioneer in subspecializing in that area.

Parents frequently seek advice on medical care at home. Here are a few tips which can help in taking care of some common ailments at home, and reduce the complications that are frequently seen in Casualty. 

A.     Lacerations, Abrasions, Fractures 

1.      Keep wounds and dressings clean & Dry (for at least 48 hours)

2.      Elevate the affected arm/leg to help relieve pain and reduce swelling

3.      Watch for signs of infection:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Pain
• Drainage

If any of these signs occur you should see your physician or visit your nearest health center. 

For many reasons, this is a question without simple or clear-cut answers. Humans have used alcohol safely and enjoyably for thousands of years, and it continues to occupy an important place in many religious ceremonies and social celebrations. In addition, moderate alcohol use can provide certain health benefits, particularly with regard to coronary heart disease. 

However, alcohol consumption is also associated with serious risks. Drinking too much alcohol is a significant cause of accidents and injuries and can lead to liver disease, certain types of stroke, abnormally high blood pressure (hypertension), various cancers, and birth defects, among other adverse effects. 

Child Abuse

DEFINITION – Deliberate violence to, or sexual assault/exploitation of a child, and/or neglect or intentional withholding of care.

RISK FACTORS:

• Alcohol or substance abuse
• Teen parent
• Mental illness
• Domestic violence
• Parental past history of abuse
• Family isolation
• Poverty
• Unwanted child
• Child with a mental or physical disability, chronic illness, premature birth

What is an STI?

An STI or Sexually Transmitted Infection is an infection which is passed on during sexual contact from one person to another and can be caused by viruses, bacteria or parasites.

How are STI’s transmitted?

STI are generally transmitted through sexual contact involving the sexual organs between partners including the vagina, penis, mouth, anus and other orifices.  Some STI’s can be transmitted from a mother to her child during birth or via breast milk.  Someone with an STI can also pass it on to another individual via the reuse of needles in intravenous drug use or via the transfusion of an untested infected unit of blood.

What is Tuberculosis (TB)?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by germs that are spread from person to person through the air. TB usually affects the lungs, but it can also affect other parts of the body, such as the brain, the kidneys, or the spine. A person with TB can die if they do not get treatment.

Is TB a health problem in ST. Lucia?

Many will recall the days when TB was very common in St. Lucia.  Many older persons recount their days on the “Chest Wing” at Victoria Hospital when it was located in what is now the General Male Medical Ward (Ward 6).  Though not quite in the spotlight, TB still exists in St. Lucia.  While numbers have decreased, it still constitutes a health problem that must be adequately addressed in order to prevent the vast amount of damage of which it is capable.

The St. Lucia Medical and Dental Association would like to join the Ministry of Health in alerting the St. Lucian public to the Dengue outbreak which has been noted over the past several weeks. 

We are particularly concerned that without the assistance of the public, curbing this outbreak will be very difficult and we are therefore calling on the general public to follow the guidelines outlined by the Ministry of Health to curb the breeding of the mosquitoes which carry and spread this disease.  It is equally important to protect ourselves from being bitten, by using the appropriate clothing, insect repellants, and insecticides.