The poor social conditions that existed in the early 20th century were ameliorated by political changes after World War II and by improvement in the economy. Sustained efforts by government agencies in sanitation, public health, and housing significantly improved health conditions. The diseases associated with poverty and underdevelopment have been eliminated or controlled. Health care is provided by both public and private agencies. Other areas of social welfare, notably child care, family life, pension plans for the elderly and disabled, and the status of women, have benefited from government attention. Community centres and playing fields have been established throughout the island.
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Palm-trees-by-the-ocean-BarbadosPalm trees by the ocean, Barbados.[Credits : © Digital Vision/Getty Images]
[Credits : Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.]
[Credits : Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.]
Souvenir-market-stall-BarbadosSouvenir market stall, Barbados.[Credits : © Sylvain Grandadam—Robert Harding World Imagery/Getty Images]
[Credits : Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.]
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