Population, environment and health in community capacity in response to global tourism expansion in the Caribbean Region. Case study of Cuba

Herminia Serrano, Centro de Estudios Demográficos (CEDEM)
Gilberto Cabrera, University of Havana
Sonia Catasus, University of Havana

The ability of planning challenges for costal communities to respond to the pressures of globalization is an important determinant of community health. Tourism is a rapidly growing industry and there is increasing concern about its health impact on local communities. Nonetheless, the research has been conducted to identify potential mitigating measures in the local planning challenges . Was conducted four focus groups and key informants interviews in each of the coastal communities. Participants expressed concerns about psychosocial impacts as well as occupational and environmental concerns, and both infectious and chronic diseases. The programs particularly targeted youth as the most vulnerable population at risk of addictions and sexually transmitted infections. Occupational health concerns for workers in the tourism sector were also addressed