Social Development: Health

This chapter examines health outcomes in Trinidad and Tobago (TT). An epidemiological shift in TT is evident, marked by a decrease in communicable diseases and a rise in chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), now claiming more lives than infectious ones. TT faces a substantial burden from NCDs, surpassing other comparable country groups in healthy life years lost. Modifiable behaviours such as unhealthy diets, excessive alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and sedentary lifestyles drive most NCDs. Notably, different ethnic groups exhibit varying susceptibilities to certain illnesses, with ITTs facing higher risks of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes due to lifestyle factors. Physical inactivity, prevalent across ethnicities, disproportionately affects ITTs due to their increased engagement in risky behaviours. Additionally, a significant discrepancy exists between ethnic groups regarding work disability due to illness, with ITTs being more affected. Addressing these health disparities requires tailored interventions considering ethnic-specific risks and promoting healthier lifestyles, especially focusing on physical activity.