Barbados is facing a defining public health moment. With 1 in 4 Barbadian adults living with diabetes or prediabetes and an estimated 40 per cent of adults battling hypertension, the country stands at a critical crossroads.

This urgency was underscored during a recent stakeholder engagement hosted by the Diabetes and Hypertension Association of Barbados (DHAB), where health professionals and community voices highlighted the widening gap between awareness and everyday health practices.

In response, the Live Stronger, Longer DHAB Republic Bank Blue Wellness Conference will take place on May 18 and 19, 2026, at the Graduation Tents, University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus. The conference brings together local, regional, and international experts, practitioners, policymakers, and citizens for a first-of-its-kind national wellness experience designed to help create a cultural shift toward healthier living.

Officials participating in the conference include President of Barbados, His Excellency, Lieutenant Colonel, The Most Honourable Jeffrey Bostic, whose support signals growing national recognition of the urgent need to address diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and other lifestyle-related diseases through prevention, education, and healthier living, and Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael.

The conference aligns with internationally recognised Blue Zone principles – emphasising daily habits such as balanced nutrition, regular movement, adequate sleep, strong social connection, and stress management.

Its title sponsor is longstanding partner in the fight against diabetes and hypertension, Republic Bank Barbados Ltd. Republic Bank has consistently supported efforts to push back against diabetes and hypertension in Barbados, and this partnership further strengthens the drive to move the national conversation from awareness to action.

One of the conference highlights will be the keynote address and discussion by Nick Buettner, Co-Founder and Explorer, Blue Zones, on the second day of the conference.

Drawing on insights from the world’s longest-living communities, Mr. Buettner will introduce proven lifestyle principles that support vitality, resilience, and longevity. Participants will discover how purpose, movement, food, and connection combine to create a practical blueprint for living stronger, longer.

At the end of each day’s proceedings, the public will be invited to attend the Blue Wellness Exposition, a free interactive wellness experience from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., featuring themed zones including:

• Know Your Numbers – Understanding what your screening numbers mean with clear explanations that empower rather than alarm.
• Food as Medicine – Live demonstrations showing how everyday meals can support healthier choices without sacrificing flavour or enjoyment.
• The Care – Personalised guidance sessions with medical professionals and wellness experts.
• The Movement – Fitness demonstrations and practical reminders that movement is medicine.
• The Stillness – A wellness sanctuary focused on stress reduction, emotional wellness, and sleep support.
• The Life – Tools for healthier everyday living showcased in a marketplace-style environment.
• The Science – An interactive learning zone using visual comparisons and practical demonstrations to simplify health science and create memorable “aha” moments.
• The Commitment – Opportunities to pledge healthier habits and sign up for DHAB’s Blue Circle self-management and Make Your Move programmes, volunteer opportunities, and membership initiatives.

The Live Stronger, Longer DHAB Republic Bank Blue Wellness Conference has been carefully designed to educate, inspire, and equip participants with practical tools to improve their health and better manage non-communicable diseases.

For more information, visit https://dhabarbados.com or follow DHAB on Instagram and Facebook at The Diabetes and Hypertension Association of Barbados.

Ministry of Health and Wellness
Diabetes and Hypertension Association of Barbados (DHAB)