About
The Diabetes and Hypertension Association of Barbados (formally known as Diabetes Association of Barbados) was founded in April 1975 by Mr. John Grace, Mr. Hugh Mapp, the Late Mrs. Dorothy Talma-Monteil, Mr. Don Norville and Mr. Wilfred Ferguson. They recognised that literature was available for free distribution, but people with diabetes were not receiving the necessary attention or guidance for their condition.
The association has ten regions across Barbados (Northern, Northeastern, West Central, Western, Southern, Eastern, Central, Gall Hill, Glebe and one for Juniors); three support groups – adult, youth and parents/guardians. These regions and groups hold outreach and social activities and have monthly meetings where a variety of topics are discussed by healthcare and non-healthcare professionals on diabetes and other life related matters.
Mission
To improve the quality of life for people living with diabetes and those at risk for developing diabetes through up-to-date education, good self-management and control of their condition.
Main Focus
- To promote interest in the causes and management of diabetes.
- To assist people with diabetes in managing their condition.
- To disseminate information and encourage preventative education on diabetes, diabetes related complications and other chronic non-communicable diseases.
- To establish and maintain research activities in these conditions, to collect and make available information relating to the incidence and treatment of diabetes and to investigate the conditions under which diabetes occurs.
- To accept subscriptions, donations, real or personal estate devises and bequests for all or any of the purposes aforesaid.
- To promote and organise cooperation in the achievement of the above purposes and, to that end bring to membership representatives of organisations engaged in the furtherance of the above.
Message from the President
As a member of IDF, we recognise and acknowledge IDF’s role as the umbrella organization working together with diabetes member organisations with shared goals and objectives. In their leadership position formally coordinating activities, providing advocacy, support and resources, enabling increased public awareness, empowering people with diabetes, especially youth. Leading the way in providing guideline for diabetes management worldwide. Our membership in IDF and our participation in the World Diabetes Congress gives us opportunities to learn from other communities and national diabetes organisations, in order to positively impact and enhance the lives of people with diabetes and those at risk of developing diabetes with our prevention and management education programmes.