Seminal Publication Captures Critical Perspectives of Health Pioneers and Builders
June 2, 2026
Perspectives that guided more than three decades of essential Caribbean health research can be found in The Story of the George Alleyne Chronic Disease Research Centre at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill, launched in May 2026.
Co-authored by Henry Fraser, Simon Anderson, Ian Hambleton, Anselm Hennis, Clive Landis, Alafia Samuels, Marshall Tulloch-Reid and Nigel Unwin, the publication traces the evolution of the George Alleyne Chronic Disease Research Centre (GA-CDRC) from a modest three-room facility to an internationally-recognised institution.
Emeritus Professor Sir Henry Fraser highlighted that the Centre’s achievements were driven by persistence, strong partnerships and a belief that Barbados could produce world-class science. What began as a small operation has grown into a research hub with global reach, grounded in collaboration across The UWI, government agencies, clinicians, donors and communities. Sir Henry emphasized that the Centre’s success belongs not to individuals, but to a sustained network of contributors.
The GA-CDRC has played a leading role in advancing research on chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) and vascular health – key challenges for the Caribbean. Its work has not only generated valuable scientific evidence, but has also informed public health policy. For example, national initiatives such as Barbados’ anti-smoking campaign have drawn on data produced by the Centre, helping to establish the country as a low-smoking jurisdiction.
In a message acknowledging the Centre’s impact, Sir George Alleyne, in whose honour the Centre is named, described CNCDs as a major threat to regional development and warned that failure to address them could jeopardise future progress. He also paid tribute to Sir Henry Fraser as the founding force behind the Centre, noting his role in guiding its growth and development.
“This Centre is his brainchild, and he has watched over it obsessively and nurtured it to this stage…. No praise is too much for Sir Henry Fraser,” Sir George said in the statement read by master of ceremony, Senator Dr Kenneth Connell.
Professor Clive Landis, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal of The UWI Cave Hill and a former director of the Centre, reflected on inheriting an institution already operating at a high standard. He credited the strong foundation laid by Sir Henry and Professor Anselm Hennis, noting that the Centre continues to produce research with clear relevance to policy and practice. He stressed the importance of ensuring that government and other stakeholders remain aware of the Centre’s capabilities so they can effectively draw on its expertise.
Current Director Professor Simon Anderson underscored the importance of staff sustaining the Centre’s work, describing both researchers and administrators as central to its ongoing success. Since its establishment, the GA-CDRC has produced more than 500 peer-reviewed publications and secured substantial research funding. However, he acknowledged the pressures faced by a small team and highlighted the need to invest in developing future leaders. He noted that succession planning is essential, requiring continuous mentorship and preparation of the next generation.
Looking ahead, Professor Anderson maintained that the Centre remains deeply relevant to current health challenges and does not need to seek new purpose. Instead, its focus is on strengthening research output, maintaining funding streams and continuing to deliver impactful projects that attract further collaboration.
The GA-DCRC falls under the Caribbean Institute for Health Research (CAIHR), whose director Professor Marshall Tulloch-Reid underscored the importance of documenting institutional history. He lauded Sir Henry’s foresight to embed the Centre within the regional UWI, helping to ensure its sustainability and influence.
The discussion also highlighted the need to improve communication of research findings. Sir Henry expressed concern that some work has not reached wider audiences and called for clearer translation into accessible language. Professor Landis reinforced this point, noting that effective health communication is increasingly critical in today’s information landscape.
