This study takes an ecological approach and uses multivariate analysis to identify factors associated with ART adherence. Findings suggest that improvements in ART adherence may be achieved by counselling, focussed attention to alcohol users and developing drugs with reduced side effects.

This study investigated the health, social and economic situation, and issues of loneliness in the elderly in Trinidad. More than one-third of these persons reported themselves to be in “fair” to “good” health, but a similar proportion reported feelings of loneliness.

An observational cross-sectional study of seatbelt utilization conducted in Kingston, Jamaica, showed 81.2% utilization by private motor vehicle drivers and 74.0%, by front seat passengers. This was significantly improved compared to 21.1% and 13.6% respectively in 1996, before the introduction of legislation in 1999 (p < 0.001). Females were significantly more likely than males to wear seat belts, both when driving (92.5% vs 77.3%; p < 0.001) and as front seat passengers (79.9% vs 66.3%; p < 0 001).

The prevalence of depression in a non-random selected group of chronic disease clinics in Southwest Trinidad was 78%. Further exploration of depression in patients with chronic illnesses is required.

Elderly surgical patients at the University Hospital of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica, had less emergency admissions, underwent more surgery, had a longer mean hospital stay, a higher mortality rate and a greater mortality amongst emergency admissions. Cancer was the commonest admission diagnosis and that amongst mortalities.