This paper attempts to explain how chronic noncommunicable diseases affect the functioning of the economic system and how the working of the economy in turn influences the incidence of CNCDs in particular countries. Suggestions are then given regarding the alignment of economic and health policies to support the prevention and management imperatives presented by the CNCDs.

Africa bears a heavy burden of stroke. In this paper, a stroke quadrangle is proposed comprising demographic surveillance and stroke research network, integrated community-based primary and secondary prevention programmes, easily accessible and wellequipped acute stroke care services and neuro-rehabilitation centres and services.

This paper reviews the epidemiology of prehypertension in Jamaica and lessons learnt from three national surveys and two cohort studies conducted by the Tropical Medicine Research Institute’s Epidemiology Research Unit.

There is a high prevalence of obesity in children in Bonaire. Effective measures are urgently needed to prevent obesity and overweight; these should focus on stimulating healthy eating habits and more physical activity.

High prevalence of Non-communicable Disease risk factors (physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, obesity, alcohol use, and hypertension) was demonstrated among staff at Cave Hill, The University of the West Indies, in Barbados, with 54% having ≥ 3 risk factors. Rates were similar to those of the general Barbadian population.

The leading causes of bhronic kidney disease in the Caribbean are hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The incidence of these two non-communicable diseases is rising in the Caribbean and prevention methods must be scaled-up to decrease the morbidity and mortality associated with them.

Using a hybridized social-ecology model, this paper argues that criminal violence in Jamaica is a form of social contagion that can only be addressed by multidisciplinary, multi-level policy initiatives.

Cigarette smoking has been identified as a high risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, coronary heart disease, strokes and peripheral vascular disease. It results in the intensification of the vascular diseases of hypertension and diabetes. The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, established by the World Health Organization in 2003, with its wide ranging recommended strategies and activities, offers a comprehensive approach towards reducing the impact on health by tobacco use. Countries should mobilise governments and civil society to implement the treaty.