The Heart & Stroke Foundation, Antigua and Barbuda hosted its 7th Annual Cardiac Symposium on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa, with in-person attendance reaching full capacity. The strong turnout of physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, medical students, and public health stakeholders underscored the growing national concern surrounding cardiovascular disease and stroke, the leading causes of death in Antigua and Barbuda.
This year’s Symposium which was chaired by Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis, Medical Director of Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre and Friend to the Foundation, delivered timely, evidence-based updates addressing the most critical risk factors driving heart attacks and stroke in the region. The discussions emphasized prevention, early detection, aggressive management of hypertension and dyslipidemia, and improved public awareness of warning signs.
Dr. Victor Elliott issued a direct warning: “Acute coronary syndrome which includes ‘heart attacks’, according to both the WHO and PAHO, is the number one killer of Antiguans & Barbudans. More lives can be saved if people recognize the symptoms and respond urgently by getting to the hospital. Chest pain cannot wait.”
Co-Founder and President of the Foundation, Dr. Georgette Meade, reinforced the importance of proactive health management.
“Sadly, we are losing many of our loved ones suddenly. We must get regular check-ups, know our numbers, and actively manage our risk factors for heart attacks and strokes. Doing so will allow us to enjoy healthier years with our families and friends,” said Dr. Meade, Consultant Cardiologist.
The Foundation was honoured by the continued patronage of His Excellency Sir Dr. Rodney Williams, Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda, who delivered congratulatory remarks and commended the sustained impact of the Symposium in advancing national health priorities.
The Honourable Michael Joseph, in his official capacity as Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness, the Environment and Civil Service Affairs, stated that the Symposium aligns with the Government’s policy and strategic health objectives.
“The Government of Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to strengthening primary healthcare systems, improving early detection of non-communicable diseases, and expanding public education around cardiovascular risk. The Annual Cardiac Symposium directly supports these national priorities by equipping healthcare professionals with the latest clinical knowledge and reinforcing prevention-focused strategies. Initiatives such as this are critical to achieving better health outcomes and reducing the burden of heart disease and stroke across our population.”
Programme Highlights
The clinical agenda featured leading local and regional experts addressing:
* Understanding the Bidirectional Relationship of Stroke, Epilepsy & Dementia – Dr. Gaden Osborne, Consultant Neurologist – Antigua and Barbuda
* Sweetness to Sickness: How Sugar Fuels Cardiovascular Disease and Cognitive Decline – Dr. Monica Osborne-Stevens, NCD Consultant – Antigua and Barbuda
* Hyperlipidemia Management: Reaching Target LDL Values and Updates in the Management of Acute Coronary Syndrome – Dr. Victor Elliot, Interventional Cardiologist – Jamaica
* HEARTS Initiative: Improving Hypertension and Diabetes Management – The Role of the Primary Health Care Team” – Dr. Gloria Giraldo, Advisor, NCD and Mental Health, PAHO/WHO
The Symposium ran from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., offering both in-person and virtual participation options, and provided attendees with five (5) Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits.
A Unified Effort to Advance Heart & Brain Health
The 7th Annual Cardiac Symposium would not have been possible without the generous support of valued sponsors whose partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing heart and brain health across Antigua and Barbuda.
𝗚𝗢𝗟𝗗 𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗢𝗥
A.S. Bryden & Sons
𝗕𝗥𝗢𝗡𝗭𝗘 𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗢𝗥𝗦
Medical Benefits Scheme
Falmouth Harbour Marina
Sagicor Life Inc.
Medica Pharma Supplies Ltd.
Bryden Stokes Ltd.
Agility Import Ltd.
𝗦𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗟 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗕𝗨𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗦
OmniCare Pharmacy
Woods Pharmacy
Cool & Smooth
Metropolital University College of Medicine
The Foundation also thanks its Friends and Partners:
Ministry of Health, Antigua & Barbuda
Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre
Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association
Healthy Caribbean Coalition
APUA Inet
Lake health & Wellbeing
American Univeristy of Antigua (AUA)
Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force
MOS Medical Services
Hope & Grace Cardiac Centre
YES Executive Services