The union's senior assistant general secretary, Orlando Scott, told the DAILY NATION that although more workers were now walking and engaging in other forms of exercise, the union remained concerned about the prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases.

"We recognise that the leading causes of death and illness as well as absenteeism in Barbados are chronic non-communicable diseases and we have been pushing a number of programmes in this respect for years," Scott said.

"In November we will be doing a programme on health and wellness for sugar workers. We want to target the sugar workers because we recognise that we need to help them in terms of their nutrition.

"We are a little fearful of the fact that sometimes they may buy food . . . . which may not necessarily be the healthiest in the world."

The programme is being run in conjunction with agencies such as the Heart Foundation of Barbados and the Diabetes Association of Barbados.

It will emphasise factors like balanced diets, exercise and keeping stress levels down.

"We are starting with the sugar workers but every worker, whatever sector they are in – construction, hotel workers, clerical workers, whatever – are being targeted in these programmes," Scott said.

Last Friday the union held an open day at its Harmony Hall, St Michael headquarters to mark the anniversary.

The programme included blood pressure tests, pedicures and manicures, and lectures on health. (TY)