Top 4 prevalent diseases affecting women in South Africa

August in South Africa is Women’s Month. This month commemorates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women in South Africa. It is also a time to focus on issues concerning women, like the problem of gender-based violence, gender equality and women’s health issues. Below are the 4 major diseases and health concerns affecting women’s health in South Africa today that you should be aware of so you can make sure you have access to medical services, emergency care or chronic benefits should you ever need it. According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), breast cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting women in South Africa. It’s essential to conduct self-examinations to check for irregular lumps in your breast and to have a mammogram screening every two years from the age of 45 years. According to the National Cancer Registry, the lifetime risk of South African women developing breast cancer is about 1 in 27. Family history of breast cancer can elevate risk. Cervical cancer is the second most common form of cancer affecting women in the country. It can only be successfully treated during the early stages so it’s imperative that all women start having a regular pap smear screening every two to three years from the age of 21 until about 65 years. It affects thousands of women annually, with the highest incidence among women aged 35-55 and is often linked to infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted through sexual contact. In South Africa, HIV prevalence is four times greater amongst women than it is amongst men. It is estimated that more than 120,000 women in the age group 15-24 years become HIV positive each year. An early diagnosis will assist you in boosting your immune system and managing your treatment plan. Antiretroviral (ARVs) medication is provided free at all local Government Clinics, CHCs and Hospitals. Diabetes is a chronic condition where your blood sugar levels become elevated due to impaired utilisation of insulin. Type II Diabetes is one of the leading causes of blindness, kidney disease, heart disease and stroke for women. Those women who are most at risk include those with a high BMI, poor diet and those with a family history of the disease. An annual blood-glucose test is used to test for Type II Diabetes. In South Africa, HIV/AIDS, breast cancer, cervical cancer, and diabetes significantly impact women’s health. HIV/AIDS disproportionately affects young women, while breast and cervical cancers are leading causes of mortality. Diabetes, driven by lifestyle changes, is on the rise. Effective prevention, early detection, and access to treatment are essential to reduce the burden of these diseases and improve women’s overall health outcomes. Remember, your health is your most valuable asset. With Zarcare’s online platform, you can access expert advice and care wherever you are. Zarcare is committed to making quality healthcare accessible, affordable, and stress-free. Our mission is to facilitate high-quality online healthcare in Southern Africa, connecting providers and patients through a secure and reliable platform. 1] 10 Most Common Women’s Health Problems https://bloom.insure/10-most-common-womens-health-problems/ 2] CANSA 3] Symptoms of Breast Cancer https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cancer/symptoms/index.html 4] Cervical Cancer Overview 5] Recognizing HIV Symptoms in Women: A Comprehensive Guide https://www.webmd.com/hiv-aids/hiv-symptoms-men-women 6] How Diabetes Affects Women https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/symptoms-in-womenBreast cancer
Cervical cancer
HIV/AIDS
Diabetes
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