In issuing the Nassau Declaration in 2001, the Caribbean
Heads of Government pronounced that "the health of a
region is the wealth of the region". This Declaration stood
on three pillars: non-communicable diseases (NCDs),
HIV/AIDS and Mental Health. Previous issues of Cajanus
have elaborated on the critical role of nutrition in NCDs
and AIDS.  This issue draws attention to the little known,
but essential, role of nutrition in mental health.

Good nutrition of a population is central to national
development not only as a social good but also from
an economic standpoint. Coordinated sectoral actions
are required to best address the nutrition-related 
problems.  This issue of Cajanus calls attention to two
important sectors – agriculture and education and 
concludes with a presentation of the priorities and
strategic approaches required to improve nutrition,
health and national development.