Eleuthera, Bahamas – Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death worldwide. According to the Department of Statistics, 25% of all deaths in The Bahamas are directly related to cardiovascular disease, making this ailment the leading cause of death in the country as well.

This deadly disease is prevalent in people who suffer from obesity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, tobacco, and excessive alcohol use, among other factors.

To combat this endemic, One Eleuthera Foundation, in partnership with Family Medicine Center and Cancer Society of Eleuthera, will host their 4th Annual Pathway to Wellness Symposium under the theme “Cardiovascular Health: Heart Matters”.

The two-day symposium comprises three events beginning July 30th. These consist of:

  1. The Pathway to Wellness Health Fair at Haynes Library Grounds, Governor’s Harbour – July 30th, 2015, 10am to 1pm. This event is designed to create a forum for the general public to be sensitized to heart disease and the benefits of healthy food choices and exercise on improving health outcomes. The fair will consist of information, food and health screening booths and special giveaways.
  2. Welcome Reception at Eleuthera Arts & Cultural Center, Tarpum Bay – July 30th, 2015, 7pm to 8:30pm. This is a time for event speakers and the public to mix and mingle. It gives both groups the opportunity to get comfortable with each other and get an idea of what to expect during Friday’s Symposium sessions.
  3. The Pathway to Wellness Symposium: Cardiovascular Health at Cancer Society Wellness Center, Palmetto Point -July 31st, 2014, 8am to 4pm. Speakers include Dr. Shakera Carroll, Dr. Tonya Roker-Davis, Dr. Dionne Dames, Dr. Frederick P. Smith, Dr. Sharad Johnson, Father Scott Brennen, Rev. David Cann and Kitibonni Adderley.

This event is comprised of two sessions.

  • Session 1 – 8am to 12pm – Heart Matters Business Session: During this time medical professionals will present on and discuss various topics related to cardiovascular disease and health.
  • Session 2 – 1pm to 4pm – Heart Matters Interactive Public Session: This event is designed for the general public and will take participants through a range of physical, spiritual and mental activities that are soothing to the heart.

For more information on this and other One Eleuthera projects and events, visit www.oneeleuthera.org.