Antigua and Barbuda was represented at a Training Workshop on Non-communicable Disease (NCD) Prevention and Control for Developing Countries, held in Beijing, China, from September 10–23, 2026.
The training was sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China and organized by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC).
The four-member delegation comprised Samantha Moitt, Chief Nutrition Officer, Ministry of Health; Dr. Akweta Alexander, Medical Doctor, Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre; Caryl Michael, Matron, Hannah Thomas Hospital; and Patrice Defoe, Senior Clerk, Medical Benefits Scheme.
The two-week programme included lectures, visits to health centres and hospitals, study tours, health demonstration areas, and cultural experiences. Participants were exposed to China’s approaches to NCD prevention and control, including strategies addressing cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, and major NCD risk factors.
A key focus of the training was the Healthy China 2030 Initiative, particularly the use of surveillance data to identify health priorities, guide interventions, and monitor progress. Participants also explored innovative approaches to health-care delivery, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to support outpatient services, monitor vital signs, and provide patients with reminders related to medication and healthy lifestyle practices.
For the Antigua and Barbuda delegation, the experience highlighted the importance of long-term planning, strong surveillance systems, innovation, and the effective use of data to guide health priorities.
While recognizing the differences between China and Antigua and Barbuda in population size, resources, and economic circumstances, the delegation noted that the experience demonstrated how sustained development can be achieved through a clear plan, consistent implementation, and regular review of progress.
The knowledge and experiences gained are expected to contribute to ongoing efforts to strengthen NCD prevention, management, surveillance, health promotion, and the use of technology within Antigua and Barbuda’s health system.
Source: Antigua News Room Antigua and Barbuda Delegation Participates in NCD Training in China.