Anguilla Social Security Board Partners with ACAN in Support of Chronic Diseases Awareness

The Valley (26th November 2019) - Chronic diseases awareness is the focus for Anguilla Community Action Network's (ACAN's) health campaign during the week of activities to mark its 13^th Anniversary, according to a release from ACAN.

The health awareness campaign, with a strong focus on early detection and cancer prevention, will begin with a panel discussion on Thursday, 28^th November and close on Monday, 2^nd December 2019, with a public conference. The five days of activities will include a panel discussion, medical consultations, cancer screening, radio interviews, a church service and a public conference.

On Saturday, 30^th November, a free Health Fair will be held at the Atlantic Star Medical Complex, at 9 am to 3 pm. The Social Security Board (SSB) is a supporting sponsor of this event, and will sponsor the pap smear, breast and prostate cancer screening to be conducted by The Cancer Center Eastern Caribbean. The free Health Fair will also include blood pressure, glucose level, cholesterol checks and eye tests.

The Social Security Board is encouraging everyone to get screened. "Early detection of any disease can save one's life. This health awareness campaign is taking place at an opportune time when cancer is ravaging our Caribbean societies. There has been an increase in the number of cancer related deaths in Anguilla in recent years, which has impact for Social Security" - said Rosanna Browne, Public Relations Office of the SSB. "Our partnership with this program is to identify and address barriers to cancer health equity and improve outcomes in our community," concluded Ms. Browne.

The Board joins with ACAN to encourage the general public to be responsible for its health and take advantage of the health sessions throughout the week. Stay healthy by arming yourself with the knowledge, practice a healthy lifestyle and get screened. Early detection saves lives!