Lifestyle Clinics are to be implemented into Jamaica’s primary care system as part of the response to the nation’s chronic obesity crisis and the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

The clinics are expected to provide comprehensive obesity management services, including medical assessments, nutrition therapy, behavioural counselling and pharmacological interventions, where necessary.

The announcement was made on Tuesday, (May 12) during the Sectoral Presentation of the Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, MP.

“Obesity is one of the most pressing public health challenges facing Jamaica today. Over the past two decades, we have witnessed a rapid rise in the prevalence of overweight and obesity across all age groups, contributing significantly to the burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and some cancers,” Minister Tufton said.

The clinics will be implemented in phases, beginning with one facility in three health regions: the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA), the Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA), and the North East Regional Health Authority (NERHA). The service model will be expanded across the health regions over a three-year period and will form a part of a network of centres of excellence for research and training.

According to the Jamaica Health and Lifestyle Survey (JHLS) III, more than half of the Jamaican population 15 years and older, approximately 53.8%, are overweight or obese. cent of Jamaicans aged 15 years and older are overweight or obese. The prevalence is significantly higher among women at 67.6 per cent, compared to 38.8 per cent among men.

Additionally, obesity among adolescents aged 10 to 19 years doubled between 2000 and 2017.

In 2019, the estimated economic impact of overweight and obesity in Jamaica stood at approximately US$425.3 million, with projections suggesting the figure could rise to US$1.53 billion by 2030.

Integrated Network

Dr. Tufton explained that the clinics will operate using a life-course approach supported by an integrated referral network to ensure continuity and quality of care.

“Ultimately, this is not only a health intervention, but it is also an investment in the well-being, productivity, and sustainable development of Jamaica,” the Minister added.

Priority actions during the first year will include the development of national clinical guidelines for obesity management by December 2026, targeted training for healthcare workers, and preparation of sites for service delivery. Clinical services are expected to begin in the final quarter of the fiscal year.

The initiative is expected to encourage greater family and community engagement to promote healthier lifestyles and address obesity collectively.