With Valentine’s Day approaching, the Ministry of Health and Social Development has raised concerns over a rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) across the Territory, urging residents to take precautions, get tested, and “love safely.”

Public Health Officer Renee Leonard highlighted the importance of awareness and prevention amid the increase in STI cases. “Our goal is to educate the public on what is happening and how they can protect themselves,” Leonard said.

The Ministry is using the occasion to reinforce its “wrap it up” message, promoting safe sexual practices. “Valentine’s Day is widely recognised as a ‘day of love’, making it an ideal time to highlight the importance of responsible choices,” Leonard added.

As part of a week-long public awareness initiative, the Ministry of Health has partnered with local medical providers, Eureka Medical and Sapphire Health, to encourage testing. Special Valentine’s Day offers will be available for those wishing to check their sexual health status.

“We appreciate our partners for supporting this important initiative,” Leonard said. “Knowing your status is key to reducing the spread of STIs in the Virgin Islands.”

She also urged residents to take responsibility for their sexual health by practising safe behaviours. “Be faithful to one partner, use barrier contraceptives, stay informed, and take ownership of your well-being. Valentine’s Day should be a celebration of love, but it is equally important to make informed and responsible choices.”

The initiative will also include a special February edition of the Ministry of Health’s newsletter, providing vital information about STIs. Additional resources such as brochures, flyers, radio advertisements, and a GIS radio report will be shared throughout the week.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development remains committed to improving public health and safeguarding the well-being of the Virgin Islands community.

Governor Daniel Pruce and his personal security officer attended the BVI Red Cross Men’s Health Fair today, February 7, as the government and health officials continue efforts to promote early detection and preventive care.

The event, held at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex on Tortola, offers free health screenings for men over 40, encouraging them to prioritise regular checkups. Organisers stress that early diagnosis of conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and prostate cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

The health fair is part of a broader push to address men’s health concerns in the territory, where studies indicate that men are less likely than women to seek medical attention. The initiative aligns with global public health campaigns that urge early intervention as a means of reducing long-term medical complications.

Director of the BVI Red Cross, Stacy Lloyd reiterated the importance of routine medical evaluations and lifestyle changes, including balanced nutrition and regular exercise, to improve overall well-being. The BVI Red Cross, alongside healthcare professionals, provided on-site consultations and distributed educational materials.

The free screenings will continue on Saturday, 8 February, as organisers aim to expand participation and reinforce the importance of proactive healthcare in the community.

Dr. Stephanie Vanterpool, a distinguished pain management expert from the British Virgin Islands, has unveiled her latest project—a documentary aimed at reshaping how we approach chronic pain. The film, Targeted Pain Treatment – Hope for Patients with Pain, premiered on East Tennessee PBS on January 8, 2025. As executive producer, Dr. Vanterpool is featured prominently alongside patients whose lives have been dramatically transformed by targeted pain treatments.

The documentary delves into groundbreaking, patient-centered pain management techniques that are offering real hope to individuals battling chronic pain. By focusing on the root causes of pain rather than merely alleviating symptoms, the film presents a fresh perspective on a condition that affects millions. Personal stories from patients who have undergone these innovative treatments provide a deeply human element, illustrating the profound impact on quality of life.

Dr. Vanterpool, who serves as the medical director of the University Center for Pain Management in Knoxville, Tennessee, as well as an Associate Professor of Anesthesiology at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine, expressed her enthusiasm for sharing this film with a wider audience. “As a proud native of the British Virgin Islands, I hope this documentary resonates with people locally, as well as those around the world, who may benefit from these transformative pain treatments,” she said.

The full documentary is now available for on-demand streaming, allowing viewers to explore the cutting-edge techniques showcased at their convenience.

https://www.pbs.org/video/targeted-pain-treatment-hope-for-patients-with-pain-pdtmd6/

For further details or media inquiries, Dr. Vanterpool is available for interviews. Journalists can reach out to Mrs. Angela Williams, Clinic Manager at the Bougainvillea Clinic, for scheduling.

About Dr. Stephanie Vanterpool Dr. Vanterpool is an esteemed pain management consultant at the Bougainvillea Clinic in Tortola, BVI, and the medical director at the University Center for Pain Management in Knoxville, Tennessee. She is an Associate Professor of Anesthesiology at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine, specializing in targeted treatments for chronic pain. As executive producer of Targeted Pain Treatment – Hope for Patients with Pain, she continues to be a leading voice in advancing the future of pain care.

About Bougainvillea Clinic The Bougainvillea Clinic is a multispecialty outpatient clinic and surgery center in the British Virgin Islands, offering advanced medical services with a focus on comprehensive, patient-centered care. The clinic is a recognised leader in pain management treatments throughout the Caribbean region. For more information, visit www.bougainvilleaclinic.com.