KINGSTON, Jamaica – Recognising that they have a role to play in the community, the Medical Association of Jamaica yesterday staged a health fair at Emancipation Park in Kingston.

President of the MAJ Dr Shane Alexis described it as an “experiment” in an interview with OBSERVER ONLINE, explaining that the approach is more than just telling people what to do to foster healthier lifestyles.

“We are not just saying that you should do one thing or another, but we are getting them involved in an active way, in a place where they are already exercising,” he said.

The MAJ president said it was great to see people joining the activities in the park, some in the work attire. Booths were set up in Emancipation Park yesterday and different exercise sessions were being conducted.

“So it is about helping people to continue living healthy, but also converting people to healthier lifestyles and what that translates to is a healthier country, more productive country, better economic output for all of us,” Dr Alexis said. “So we are all in it together.”

“You have to get involved and live it, that’s what health is about, and we are trying to build on that message,” he continued.

The health fair forms part of the MAJ’s activities to mark their Golden Jubilee Week from June 7 – 14, 2015.

Dr Alexis told OBSERVER ONLINE that various health topics will be discussed later this week and that though it is geared towards health professionals, the sessions are also open to the public.

Anika Richards