Bibi-Aisha Wadvalla

Diabetes rising in African females of childbearing age

JOHANNESBURG – As increasing numbers of African people embrace Western life over traditional customs, so they are exposed to a number of new chronic conditions and illnesses.

Malpractice suits undermining SA health system

The increasing number of medical malpractice litigation claims in South Africa have been described as an ‘explosion’ by Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, who warns that the compassion-based practice of medicine is being replaced by defensive medicine and mistrust.

Fatty food a risk for gallstones

Vumile Hlophe from Soshanguve ignored strange body pains and cramps for several months before they grew so bad she had to be hospitalised. Sharon Nkosi writes that the ongoing discomfort she had ignored turned out to be gallstones – a condition that will be fixed when she undergoes surgery at the end of this month.

Sugar and sight: what’s the connection?

Debates are in full swing about the proposed sugar tax that is likely to start in South Africa in early 2018. As Orbis Africa explains, this is part of a broader government plan to tackle non-communicable diseases over the next five years.

Landmark ARV pricing deal to save SA billions

Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, Minister of Health, says a landmark pricing deal announced by UNAids will accelerate the availability of the first affordable, generic, single-pill HIV treatment.

Public support for sugary drinks tax is growing

Three out of four South African adults are supportive of government’s efforts to enforce policies that will discourage people from consuming sugary drinks and junk food.

Health-e and Heala on the Tekano team

Both organisations are represented among the first group of Tekano fellows recently announced in South Africa.

Liquor board fights alcohol abuse in rural Eastern Cape

In its efforts to reduce alcohol abuse among young people, the Eastern Cape Liquor Board has been hosting sports tournaments in different parts of the province.

F. W. de Klerk speaks out about his cancer experience

MEDIA RELEASE: Former president and Nobel Peace Prize winner, F. W. de Klerk knows exactly how colorectal cancer can affect someone. He was diagnosed with this type of cancer in 2006 and has been in remission for seven years now. His surprise diagnosis has made him realise that this sensitive type of cancer needs to be discussed, and receive more public awareness.