SOME of the most destructive illnesses that blight our community will come under the spotlight when experts go on the road to dispel myths and give advice on prevention and treatment.

Health care professionals, accompanied by representatives of community helping organisations will speak to groups of at least 20 who request them as part of a programme launched yesterday.

The Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB), in conjunction with the Bank of Butterfield Employee Sacred Trust (BEST) is behind the disease education programme.

Diabetes, breast cancer, Alzheimer's and substance abuse are among the illnesses the experts will be prepared to talk about.

While the professionals will give prevention tips and treatment options, the helping organisations will share first-hand experiences of specific diseases.

BHB chairman Jonathan Brewin said: "This innovative wellness initiative provides information on diseases that most negatively impact the quality of life in our community."

Organisations that will give presentations include The Allan Vincent Smith Foundation, PALS, Alzheimer's Support Group, Family Support for Mental Health, Just Between Us / Reach Recovery, the Neverland Foundation, Open Airways and Star / Lighthouse.

Tim Davidson, chairman of BEST's board of firectors, said: "We believe that public education about these diseases will help build a healthy community, which is one of the main priorities of BEST."