Your
November 2020 – Issue 14
Matters The community paper to whom your wellness matters. facebook.com/yourwellnessza
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Miss South Africa Reigns in Mental Health Refiloe Nomdada
Shudufhadzo Musida has been crowned Miss South Africa 2020 and her hope is to raise awareness for mental health issues in rural and informal South Africa! At a recent media brunch attended by Your Wellness Matters’ Managing Publisher Jehad Kasu, that was hosted by Brand South Africa at the Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town, Musida said “I plan to bring more awareness to mental health, especially in rural and disadvantaged areas, because I truly believe that we need to work on the mind for any change to come about in this country. I plan to mobilise various stakeholders and the nation so we can bring about educational empowerment through the tackling of issues such as period poverty among young girls, workshops that teach children about the importance of mental health from a young age, and mentorship programmes for young women so they can be empowered to be agents of their own future.” A recent survey released by the Interna- Center: Miss South Africa 2020, Shudufhadzo Musida flanked by 1st and 2nd Runners up Dr Thato Mosehle and tional Red Cross revealed that the mental Natasha Joubert health of 62% of South Africans has been a symbol for breastfeeding protection, promotion negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pan- and • Increased use of tobacco and related cialsupport. loss. demic. Mental health conditions were products, alcohol, and other harmful subalready a concern before the pandemic stances. If you experience any of the following, Dr and, while the country has dealt with the Parker advises you to seek professional immediate effects of COVID-19, the You can also contact the South African help immediately: long-lasting negative effects have yet to Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) surface, explains Dr Yusrah Parker, Medical on 0800 456 789 to speak to a profession• Constant fear and worry about your own Advisor at Sanlam Individual Life. al. health and the health of your loved ones; Conditions with long-lasting negative Mental health has always been a priority • Constant fear and worry about your effects include post-traumatic stress disorfor Sanlam even before the pandemic, financial situation and job status; der, depression, irritability, anger, and anxiadds Dr Parker. Sanlam’s income protec• Changes in eating and sleeping patterns; ety, all of which may be brought on by fears • Difficulty concentrating; of getting infected, isolation, inadequate • Worsening health issues; Continued on page 2 supplies and information, as well as finan• Worsening mental health issues; and
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A POCKET GUIDE TO PRIORITISING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH DURING AND POST COVID-19 tion offering, which covers occupational disability and severe illness and impairment, provides temporary and permanent income cover in the event of a mental health claim, whether it is related to COVID or not. If a mental health claim is related to COVID-19, Sanlam considers the final diagnosis made by a healthcare practitioner as well as the treatment and period of sick leave prescribed. Sanlam will then compare this to the most up-to-date version of the Official Disability Guidelines (ODG) to determine whether or not the sick leave period is valid. To ensure you are prioritising your mental health during and post COVID-19, follow these tips by Dr Parker: 1. Check in with yourself
Ask yourself how you are doing, determine what you need and acknowledge your feelings. 2. Establish a routine
Continue your usual daily routine, such as waking early and getting dressed for work, even if you are not going into the office. If you are a parent, incorporate a schedule for your children. Break up the monotony.
3. Exercise
Exercise benefits mental health by reducing adrenaline and cortisol, both of which are stress hormones. You can incorporate active time into your day by walking, light stretching and doing yoga practice. 4. Find a healthy balance of information
Ditch the COVID overload! Avoid checking updated information constantly and minimise your chance of receiving constant updates by keeping to a 15-minute limit when checking the news. 5. Stay connected
As we continue to social distance, do not forget to connect with family, friends and co- workers. This will minimise feelings of isolation and protect your mental health. You can call, text, email, video chat or participate in online activities such as classes. 6. Spend free time on meaningful activities
Activities such as reading or taking a walk on the beach to unwind also allow your mind to relax.
7. Speak to someone
If you are not coping, a listening ear may help in allowing you to express your feelings and provide support. 8. Take a break from work
Consider taking a few days of annual leave to help you disconnect and relax. 9. Maintain a balanced diet
Do not skip meals. This happens when we become too busy with tasks during the day or are feeling stressed. Limit high-sugar and high-caffeine drinks and drink plenty of water instead. Ensure you have three meals at regular intervals during the day.
Mental health receives only 5% of the public health expenditure, making access to mental healthcare inadequate or inaccessible for most South Africans. “While you cannot predict whether you will ever be part of the current 62% of South Africans that are negatively affected by COVID-19, you can ensure you have income protection cover to safeguard you financially while you get the treatment you need,” concludes Dr Parker.
(Image 1) From left to right: YWM Managing Publisher Jehad Kasu, Thato Mosehle, Keineloe Phakathi, Shudufhadzo Musida, Candice Modisele and Natasha Joubert. (Image 2) Jehad with Miss SA 2020, Shudufhadzo Musida. (Image 3) From Left: Brand SA Chairwoman Ms Thandi Tobias, Jehad Kasu and Acting Brand SA CEO, Ms Thulisile Manzini.
Your Wellness Matters is a free wellness community newspaper created to empower readers with preventative wellness information in order to make better wellness and lifestyle decisions.
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TEST2PREVENT DIABETES Partner Content: WOW
World Diabetes Day on 14 November aims to raise global awareness on diabetes prevention and management. According to the International Diabetes Federation, by 2035, almost 600 million of us may be living with diabetes. This will rise to 642 million by 2040. Diabetes is a major and increasing public health threat in South Africa. It is estimated that currently 1 in 4 adults over the age of 45 years have diabetes. Health complications of diabetes; such as amputations, blindness, stroke, heart attacks and kidney failure; can prevent people from working, resulting in poverty. People with diabetes are also at increased risk of developing severe COVID-19 symptoms, needing hospital treatment. Diabetes occurs when there is a problem in the body with insulin and glucose (sugar) cannot get into the cells. This causes sugar levels in the blood to rise. Over the long-term high glucose levels are associated with damage to the body and failure of various organs and tissues. There are three main types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes can develop at any age but occurs most frequent-
ly in children and adolescents. Type 2 diabetes is more common in adults and accounts for around 90% of all diabetes cases. The main risk factor for type 2 diabetes is an unhealthy lifestyle, including a lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating and an unhealthy weight. Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a type of diabetes that consists of high blood glucose during pregnancy and is associated with complications to both mother and child. There is a tendency for diabetes to run in families because they usually eat the same food and live a similar lifestyle. Your lifestyle choices influence your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. You can prevent or lower your risk by living a healthy lifestyle. A healthy lifestyle includes being active, eating healthy food, having a healthy weight and taking your medication correctly as prescribed by your health worker. If there is diabetes in your family, you should be careful not to put on weight over the years. Growth of the waist size increases the risk of diabetes, whereas regular physical activity will lower the risk. You should also take care of your eating and drinking habits; making
Source: Physical Activity for Health in Africa: Guidance during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic
sure each day to eat healthy foods, make water your drink of choice, and avoid or limit food and drinks containing added sugar. Preventing and managing diabetes means keeping your blood sugar as normal as possible (<5/5mmol) by following a healthy lifestyle. During the month of November, WoW! will be hosting the #BeSugarSmart Challenge to create awareness on how to reduce our added sugar intake. Join the challenge on Facebook (WoW! WesternCape on Wellness) and WhatsApp (send #BeSugarSmart to 0663906646) to receive more information on healthy eating, physical activity and motivation for a healthier lifestyle. Diabetes is a chronic and slowly progressive condition, we often do not act until it is too late. In addition to living a healthy lifestyle, it is important to know your risk of type 2 diabetes. Completion of the Test2Prevent tool below will help you to find out your risk and if you should have your blood sugar tested. Thank you for helping us by sharing this information with others to prevent and manage diabetes together!
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CHILDHOOD OBESITY AND THE RISK FOR DIABETES Supplied Content
According to research, at least four out of five parents cannot recognise the risks of diabetes in their families. This, coupled with the rapidly expanding problem of childhood obesity in South Africa, means that the country’s children are facing severe and significant health challenges. As the spotlight turns to World Diabetes Day on 14 November, what can parents do to minimise the risks of their children becoming obese and developing Type 2 diabetes? “Often times parents believe that it is only the child that needs to undergo changes to curb the onset of obesity, when in fact it is an opportunity for the whole family to make lifestyle changes,” explains Dr Iqbal Karbanee, CEO of Paed-IQ BabyLine, a 24/7 telephonic-based helpline for medical advice, given by paediatric-trained nurses. He adds that childhood obesity, coupled with the paradox of under-nutrition, has reached epidemic proportions in South Africa, and COVID-19 has only made it worse. “Obesity is a co-morbidity meaning that if your child is suffering from carrying excess weight, he or she is at increased risk of complications if diagnosed with the Coronavirus,” says Karbanee. The 2019 South African Child Gauge Report found that child obesity continues to the rise in South Africa. At least 13% of children, under the age of five, is obese, while one in four children is malnourished and has stunted growth. Worryingly, South Africa has one of the highest obesity rates in the world. Karbanee says that the risk of not addressing obesity in childhood is lifelong psychological and emotional damage as a result of low self-esteem, a lack of confidence, and teasing. According to Karbanee, it is not a low rate of physical activity that can lead to obesity, but rather a poor diet. “The dynamic of a rapidly urbanised population exposed to a myriad of food choices has led to major dietary changes. Coupled with socio-economic and genetic factors, obesity is a complicated disease that can lead to
Type 2 diabetes. Both these lifestyle diseases are 100% preventable,” says Karbanee. “Furthermore, diabetes can occur in children from a very young age. Although far less common than adult onset diabetes, when it does occur it has major impact on the child and family.” Type 1 Diabetes is the result of the body not producing enough Insulin. When this happens, the levels of glucose in the blood cannot be correctly controlled and can go too high or too low. Parents and caregivers need to be aware of the signs and symptoms children experience as they can develop over a short space of time – usually a few weeks or a month or two: 1. Increased intake of water. The child will start being excessively thirsty and will want to drink water often 2. Increased frequency of urination: The child will pass urine very frequently. A smaller child may start wetting themselves at night after previously being dry. 3. The child is eating more but losing weight. Children with uncontrolled diabetes have major fluctuations in appetite but tend to lose weight very quickly. 4. Tiredness. The child with low glucose in the blood will be very tired and the overall energy levels decrease. 5. Children with sudden onset diabetes may have a crisis called ketoacidosis. This will result in the child appearing very sick, lethargic, dehydrated with sometimes even drowsy. This is an emergency that requires immediate treatment. Type 2 Diabetes, is the adult onset type of Diabetes associated with excessive weight gain. This leads to Insulin resistance and can result in hypertension and cardiovascular disease in the long term. Recognising these signs, and knowing whether or not to go to the doctor can be tricky, which is why nurses play a crucial role in the prevention and management of diabetes. This is the reason for the 2020 World Diabetes Day campaign theme being
Image Supplied
centered around nurses, who support those living with diabetes. “Not only can they help parents recognise the signs of diabetes, but they can also prevent, manage and educate,” says Karbanee. “For parents whose children have been diagnosed with diabetes, it can be a confusing time, signaling a major change for the entire family, and leaning on professional, qualified and friendly nursing staff can help with managing the impact of the condition.” He advises parents who want information on diabetes to seek help from appropriate advice-based telephonic services that offer affordable access to quality medical care. “Our experienced nursing sisters, trained in paediatric healthcare, use a pre-qualified checklist to identify the medical concern and recommend the most appropriate action to take. By offering the first-of-its-kind telephonic-based triage care in South Africa, our service forms part of medical intervention strategies to promote health and prevent disease in young children under the age of 12, including obesity and Type 2 diabetes,” says Karbanee. Paed-IQ BabyLine’s protocol was developed for South Africa by Karbanee and is endorsed by globally renowned paediatrician, Dr Barton Schmitt, the father of medical-advice telephonic systems.
Images Supplied
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FLAXSEED OIL REDEFINES SOAP FOR HEALTH-CONSCIOUS TIMES Supplied Content
As hand hygiene and skin health become major priorities for individuals and families across South Africa, flaxseed oil has emerged as a healthy and effective way to improve skin health. Flaxseed oil has been found to enhance the skin’s own ability to clean itself, boosting natural antibiotic protection and providing prolonged protection against bacteria. It also has internal health benefits – flaxseed oil contains omega-3, omega-9 fatty acids , and omega-6 fatty acids, which studies have found to have positive heart benefits1.
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Flaxseed oil is also known to improve skin smoothness and hydration, to reduce inflammation, control sebum production, and to prevent pollutants from entering the skin. As an ingredient in new Protex Flaxseed
bar soap, flaxseed oil helps to protect against germs while penetrating the skin and boosting its ability to fight bacteria. The new soap offers South Africans revolutionary health benefits, incorporating this recognised bacteria-protection effect using pure, cold-pressed flaxseed oil. It has been shown to boost the skin’s natural defences for up to 24 hours after use. “We believe an ingredient is not protecting unless it makes you stronger,” said Panagiotis Tsourapas, group President, Colgate-Latin America, Asia Pacific & Africa-Eurasia. “This is why we have added flaxseed oil to our new Protex bar soap. The new soap represents the biggest natural innovation in body care since the launch of Protex in 1985.” Tsourapas said thanks to the protection that new Protex Flaxseed provides, people
using it would now have greater confidence to get out and enjoy life. “Protex Flaxseed gives you the confidence and freedom to reach out and touch everything good in the world,” he said. “New flaxseed technology protects against germs while also rejuvenating skin and making you healthier. “By combining these health benefits, Protex is looking to improve our attitude to life. It’s about going beyond regular soap, and redefining what soap does for us.”
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GROW AND GROOM A MO TO UNITE AND OVERCOME LOCKDOWN ISOLATION Sign up as a Mo Bro or Mo Sister at www.za.movember.com and find out more as to how you can make a difference and change the face of men’s health. Download the Movember app on your mobile device. Follow Movember on social media: @MovemberRSA on Twitter or facebook/MovemberSouthAfrica. All funds raised will go to awareness campaigns, research and survivor programmes linked to men’s health in South Africa. ** What the Men’s Foundation is doing in 2020 to make a difference ? ** The Men’s Foundation has developed several mental health support programs, which they aim to fund through this Movember campaign as well as corporate contributions. This includes ‘Conquer the Curve’®, which is a podcast and webinar series featuring renowned counselling psychologist Dr Hanan Bushkin, Founder of the Anxiety and Trauma Clinic, and a specialist in the treatment of anxiety disorders and trauma related conditions. Supplied Content
ness on these issues.
28 October 2020 – The hairiest month of the year is here! Now more than ever Mo Bros and Mo Sisters need to join Movember – the global movement that’s Changing the Face of Men’s Health – and Grow, Host or MOVE to help raise funds and awareness for men’s health issues such as depression, suicide prevention as well as prostate and testicular cancer.
“The pandemic has urgently brought into focus the need to have open conversations and empower men to address their physical and mental health issues. Traditionally men have adopted a ‘head in the sand’ approach to deal with it, but we can’t afford this any longer,” says Gsell.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has turned our world upside down and continues to devastate people’s lives. Job losses, financial instability, emotional strain and health struggles are taking their toll on all men,” says Garron Gsell, chief executive and founder of the Men’s Foundation, which manages the Movember campaign in South Africa under license from the Global Movember Foundation. Gsell adds that the pandemic has emphasised issues such as loneliness, depression, isolation and prostate and testicular cancer, which is why Movember 2020 is more relevant than ever. A month-long campaign that starts ‘growing’ from this Sunday, the 1st of November, Movember looks at mental health through a male lens, focusing on prevention, early intervention and health promotion, working towards men taking action to be mentally well, while being supported by those around them. The campaign sees men across the globe change their appearance by growing a moustache for 30 days to help raise aware-
Currently, men in South Africa have a life expectancy that is seven years’ shorter than that of women. The Men’s Foundation aims to reduce the number of men dying prematurely by 25% by 2030. Furthermore, prostate cancer rates will double in the next 15 years. Testicular cancer rates have already doubled in the last 50 years, while three quarters of suicides are men. Poor mental health leads to half a million men taking their own life every year. That’s one every minute. “Globally, one man dies every minute of every day, while in South Africa, male suicide accounts for approximately 18 deaths per day. We cannot sit back and accept this.” Gsell is calling for support from men, women and companies who are investing into staff wellness programmes or helping men to get back on their feet after having gone through tough times in 2020. “Now is the time to mobilise to support and equip men who are struggling to overcome challenges unique to them. Sign up to Movember and help spread the message that ‘it’s ok to not be ok’ and commit 30 days of Movember to either Grow, Move or Host,” concludes Gsell.
As an advocate for Men’s Health and as a member of the Cancer Alliance, the Men’s Foundation has also been acknowledged for its contribution in developing first ever Policy and Guidelines for treating prostate cancer to be published next year by the Department of Health. Who should get involved in Movember ? ** Mo Bro’s are encouraged to start 1 Movember clean shaven. Grow throughout the month, and get some serious funds behind the men who need it most. Mo Sisters, make a difference in the lives of the men in your life! Get behind the Mo Bro’s in your life, adopt a Mo Bro in the office, help organise the teams, auction off their moustaches, or get a little creative and organise an event. Anything to attract attention and raise funds while having fun. Mo Bro’s or Mo Sisters, do something good for you, while doing something great for men’s health. Move this Movember, and you can be the difference in a man’s life. Walk, run, cycle, swim or row. A little or a lot. Solo or in a team. It’s not about being the fittest or going the furthest. It’s about havin’ fun, doin’ good, by raising funds along the way. How to get involved in Movember
It’s time to take action: 1. Sign up to help raise awareness and make a difference. Whatever you grow will save a Bro, whether it’s the First One, the Itchy One, the Salt & Pepper One, they all fight prostate and testicular cancer, as well as male depres-
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HELP CHANGE THE FACE OF MEN’S HEALTH THIS MOVEMBER sion. Grow a Mo, Host and attend an event, or MOVE to fundraise at www.za.movember.com 2. Start a Team, get the people in your workplace to join you. Have fun. 3. Set a fundraising target. Create a JustGiving page so your supporters can find you. 4. MOVE for men’s health this Movember by running or walking 60km over the month. That is 60 kilometres for the 60 men we lose to suicide each hour, every hour across the world. Beat your personal best and get your friends to sponsor you. 5. Mo Sisters, adopt a Mo Bro or commit to MOVE for the month alongside your hairier halves. Have fun and get creative in the workplace.
Select your choice from the moustache guide. 3. Style it. Trim it. Keep it neat. 4. Dedicate your Mo to someone who has been impacted by cancer. 5. Auction off your moustache to the highest donor.
Take your moustache to the next level:
Rule 1: Sign up to www.movember.com and commit to Grow, Move or Host, or simply make a donation in support of someone. It’s always better to Mo in a group than to Mo alone, so rally your mates or colleagues – Movember is a fun virtual campaign.
1. Been growing a beard? Summer’s the second biggest reason to sacrifice your beard for men’s health issues. 2. Sport a classic moustache. From the one grown by dad, for the one’s grown for Dads.
The Rules No matter how you’re doing Movember, get yourself going on the right foot: GROWING A MO? Get it Right - No matter the shape or style of your Mo this Movember, your Mo inspires conversations, donations, and real change. There are only a few rules in Movember, but they’re vital.
Rule 2: Once signed up, commit to your MOVE plans or Start clean-shaven on Movember 1st. Set your sights on a Mo style. Are you confident you can outdo Hulk Hogan himself? Or shooting for a modest Wisp? Your moustache is your hairy billboard for the month of Movember, so get a little creative. Sacrifice a beard, dye your Mo, auction it off to the highest donor: the more eyes on your Mo, the better. Rule 3: Grow and Groom or MOVE through the month, updating your social media posts on your Mogress during the month, while driving donations. If you require fundraising ideas, mail info@mensfoundation.co.za for a fundraising toolkit. Rule 4: Have Fun while doing Good, while conducting yourself as a modern gentleman.
About Movember The Movember Foundation is the leading global men’s health charity, funding over 1,250 projects in 21 countries worldwide – focused on men’s health initiatives, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention.
tion is developing and implementing global programmes from Movember, as well as their own programmes, to fund men’s survivorship and research programmes that meet the global objectives of the Movember Foundation.
option of Low Dose Rate (LDR) brachytherapy to prostate cancer patients. Social media channels: #tag: #MovemberRSA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MovemberSouthAfrica Twitter: @MovemberRSA
Movember is ranked 45th out of the top 500 NGOs (non-governmental organisations) around the world and is the largest non-governmental funder of men’s health programmes globally. Movember delivers innovative, breakthrough research and support programmes that enable men to live happier, healthier and longer lives. In South Africa, Movember is grown and groomed by The Men's Foundation of South Africa under license from the International Movember Foundation. The Men’s Founda-
Funds raised by the Men’s Foundation support awareness, education and survivorship and research programmes developed in South Africa through local Movember efforts. Survivorship programmes invested into include a Patient Navigation Programme, Cancer Cohort Programme, an on-line patient support centre, the extension of its global prostate registry IronMan to South Africa and more recently Project Peacock. Project Peacock provides the
Media contacts: Crystal van der Merwe 084 685 2450 cystal@movembersa.com Garron Gsell 082 580 4581 E-mail: garron@movember.com On behalf of: The Men’s Foundation of South Africa NPO/NPC, official licensees of Movember in South Africa
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“EARLY DETECTION AND A POSITIVE MINDSET HELPED ME BEAT CANCER” MO BRO YOREN CHETTY, CANCER SURVIVOR Supplied Content
These are the words Yoren Chetty, a certified financial planner from Johannesburg, will remember forever. Not because it is a catchphrase being used to describe the disruption caused by the Coronavirus, but rather because it was delivered by his doctor moments before he was diagnosed with Stage 2 testicular cancer on 19 February 2020. Fast forward to today, it would be hard to believe that Yoren, who turns 40 in November, has beaten cancer this year. One surgery and three rounds of chemotherapy later, Yoren is training to participate in the virtual New York City Marathon on 1 November and will run 42.2km in the streets of Johannesburg on behalf of Movember (www.za.movember.com), the leading global men’s health charity tackling prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention. Running 4km loops 10.5 times to complete the marathon, Yoren’s run will launch the Movember campaign, which will continue throughout the month of November. As a Mo Bro for the campaign, Yoren is hoping to raise approximately R60 000 through the run, the proceeds of which will go towards funding survivorship and research programmes for prostate and testicular cancer, as well as mental health programmes. Movember looks at mental health through a male lens, focusing on prevention, early intervention and health promotion, working towards men taking action to be mentally well, while being supported by those around them. “I got through the lowest points between chemotherapy rounds by using the power of visualisation. When I couldn’t walk or the pain was unbearable, I would close my eyes and imagine myself running down 5th Avenue in Manhattan, New York City, competing in the race,” says Yoren. Coincidentally, Yoren was just starting a new venture in Shanghai, China when the news of the Coronavirus started making headlines. One night in October 2019 he felt pain and swelling and discovered a lump, following which a visit to the doctor and a scan revealed a tumour. Yoren was scheduled to come to
South Africa a week before China instated its lockdown, was lucky enough to get on a flight, and underwent surgery in Johannesburg in February 2020 to remove the tumour. A further scan revealed that there were enlarged lymph nodes in his kidney area, and chemotherapy was recommended. “I received chemotherapy during the height of the nationwide lockdown Level 5. Although I was fearful of contracting COVID-19 given that my immunity was compromised, I was cautious and adhered to the regulations, such as social distancing and no visits from friends and family.” This added another layer of complexity to the already stressful situation of dealing with cancer, one that could have been very lonely and challenging for his mental health. He overcame this by training himself to not let adversity get him down, adopting a positive mindset and refusing to give in to negativity. “I was in isolation with my parents and did not see anyone other than my oncologist and the nursing staff. I did not even have my camera on during Zoom calls with friends, family and colleagues. I also chose to surround myself with things that gave me strength and made a conscious effort to replace negative thoughts with positive ones,” says Yoren, who completed the last round of chemotherapy in May 2020. He adds that the power of mental resilience is an incredibly important message not only to maintain mental health during the pandemic, but for any man battling prostate cancer, testicular cancer or any other health issue.
Cancer Survivor, Yoren Chetty
the Movember campaign in South Africa under license from the Global Movember Foundation. Movember encourages both men and woman to sign up for free on www.movember.com to support the awareness and education for the campaign, where Mo Bros and Sisters can commit to either Grow, Move or Host an event, or simply make a donation to someone who is. Any action in the name of Movember fights the health issues that are the leading causes of men’s fatalities in South Africa. All funds raised will go towards Changing the Face of Men’s Health in South Africa. Get involved
“Cancer can be beaten. Early detection saved my life, and it can save so many more men’s lives. I acted on a symptom. Men should listen more to their bodies and if anything feels unusual, get it checked out,” says Yoren. Today he sees himself not as a victim, but as a survivor of cancer, and is encouraging every man to get tested.
Help Change the Face of Men’s Health and sign up as a Mo Bro or Mo Sister to raise funds and awareness for Movember. Grow a Mo, host and attend an event, or MOVE and you can be the difference in a man’s life. Walk, run, cycle, swim or row. A little or a lot. Solo or in a team. It’s not about being the fittest or going the furthest. It’s about havin’ fun, doin’ good, by raising funds along the way.
“We have a long way to go until no man dies of cancer. Our sons, partners, fathers, brothers and friends are facing these challenges and we need your help,” says Garron Gsell, chief executive and founder of the Men’s Foundation, which manages
For more info, visit www.za.movember.com or download the Movember app on your mobile device. Follow Movember on social media: @MovemberRSA on Twitter or facebook/MovemberSouthAfrica.
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UBER EATS AND MEDICARE TO LAUNCH SOUTH AFRICAN-FIRST PHARMACY OFFERING Supplied Content
Self-medication available for at-home delivery
to those who need it most, without any risk of leaving the safety of their homes.
Uber Eats is excited to announce a South African-first pharmacy offering locally with Medicare that will now provide users, directly from the Uber Eats App, access to over-the-counter medication (self-medication), including schedule 1 and 2 drugs for delivery without leaving home. Uber Eats is rolling out a new reimagined experience to users to find exactly what they are looking for—faster, in addition to offering new ordering categories such as groceries, medicines, speciality foods, and pet food.
These steps will see pharmaceutical items like Genpayne, ACC200 or Corenza C and other medicines available over-the-counter at pharmacies, available for delivery via the Uber Eats app. “We strongly believe in reinventing pharmacy, and thanks to this partnership with Uber Eats this is made possible. Getting the medication South Africans need, when they need it, without the risk of leaving their home is just the beginning as we continue to explore how best we can bring access, convenience and reliability in our everyday needs.” says Tim Knapp, CEO at Medicare.
Medication Made Easy
With various convenience goods already sold by Medicare via the Uber Eats marketplace, the extended partnership will allow users to add over-the-counter schedule 1 and 2 medication (self-medication) directly into their basket for convenient delivery. This significantly increases access to medication
This novel partnership requires no physical contact with an attending pharmacist, however, should a user need further assistance with the available medication, a pharmacist is just a telephone call away. Before any order is prepped and dispatched, the user
will need to provide personal details including their full name, address and contact number as required by law. Upon delivery, the individual accepting the medication will need to provide a form of identification. The partnership will utilise Medicare’s network of pharmacies across Johannesburg and Cape Town, to fulfil the orders. The visible locations will appear inside the Uber Eats app behind the pharmacy banner, or accessible by searching for “Medicare”. “Seeing how quickly locals adopted an online platform, allowed us the opportunity to significantly scale our offerings to cater for more than just food, moving to just about anything that one might need to live comfortably at home,” says Shane Austin, General Manager of Uber Eats in Sub Saharan Africa. A redesigned experience
Over-the-counter medication (self-Medica-
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UBER EATS AND MEDICARE TO LAUNCH SOUTH AFRICAN-FIRST PHARMACY OFFERING tion) isn’t the only new add-on - as Uber Eats continues to grow and scale, so too do the options available to users. Several new categories outside of just food delivery, are now available in the newly launched easy-to-find shortcuts, including cuisines and new merchants. Shortcuts give users instant access to their favourite cuisines and new merchants like grocery stores, butchers, retailers like Game and Exclusive Books, pet supply stores such as Absolute Pets, and more. During October, the app will continue to roll out new and enhanced features, including updated tailored recommendations. Austin explains, “The more you order, the more tailored our recommendations, so you’ll spend less time choosing and more time eating. When you’re looking to discover a new favourite, you’ll see curated picks for you, like Hidden Gems in your neighbourhood, and Family Favourites with food bundles to feed the entire crew.” Group ordering is also set to be inaugurated later this month, which will allow users to
order from multiple restaurants in one single order. No more passing the phone around the room or writing down everyone’s order ahead of time! While the app has always provided unique flavour and cuisine filters, new categories have been added to further curate the experience by offering a more streamlined approach to ordering. With so many options, the app’s map has been enhanced to show which restaurants offer pick-up while showing all restaurants available and their reviews, making it easier to decide where to order. Growth of GroCos
With more at-home deliveries for everyday essentials, Uber Eats emphasised its efforts in growing the number and diversity of grocery, retail and convenience merchants available via the app. In South Africa, the app reports couriers
completing over 900 000 km in just grocery deliveries. That’s about 23 trips around the world to get consumers their daily must-haves such as bread and full cream milk (which were the most popular grocery items ordered). Whether South Africans are looking for a meal they’ve ordered before, or itching to satisfy the day’s craving, Uber Eats has them covered. With simple reordering and personalized food recommendations based on their location, taste, and lifestyle, Uber Eats is making it simpler than ever before to find exactly what people are looking for, sometimes before they even know it! About Medicare
Medicare is a group of 50 community pharmacies across Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and Western Cape. Medicare is reinventing the South African pharmacy to give equal and affordable access to healthcare for all South Africans.
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Your Wellness Matters
Issue 14 - November 2020
HONOUR THE “BRAVE”: CELEBRATING THE NEXT GENERATION OF HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS Supplied Content Season 2 of ‘Sponsors of Brave’ is now open for nominations - calling all aspiring, current, or recently graduated and community service healthcare students boldly and bravely changing the world around them. The 2020 Sponsors of Brave campaign – a partnership between Adcock Ingram OTC and News24 – aims to celebrate the unsung heroes and brave professionals in healthcare. In particular, season 2 recognises that pursuing a career in healthcare during the height of a pandemic is the definition of a Generation of Brave and aims to shine a spotlight on the succession of healthcare heroes. Setting the bar high
Season 1 of the Sponsors of Brave campaign was a runaway success, showcasing the depth and breadth of heroism all around us. Some 3 800 heroes from the front lines of healthcare in South Africa were nominated and 12 finalists emerged to have their stories shared and amplified. By the end of the competition, over 3.2 million readers engaged with the campaign, and two worthy winners were chosen, earning R25 000 for each of their preferred charities and a trip to an overseas medical conference of their choosing. Nominations cast a wide net, culminating with two winning entries: Pharmacist and community
cornerstone Nontutuzelo Sibango from the Eastern Cape who captured the public’s heart through her work supporting young athletes in her community and clinic founder Dr Hugo Templeman of Ndlovu Care Group in Limpopo was the Judges choice. Time to step up
Now, as our energy to face what is left of 2020 wanes, we need fresh faces that bring new stories and successes to celebrate and reinvigorate the nation. This is why the focus for season 2 is on students, graduates and those in community service gearing up to enter the healthcare profession during this unprecedented time in history. Despite everything 2020 has thrown at them – business and school closures, shrinking term dates, rising unemployment, and exceptional uncertainty – our budding healthcare professionals have proven to be resilient. “This year has been incredibly trying, but our Sponsors of Brave campaign is all about hope and heroism,” says Andrea Firth, Commercial Editor of BrandStudio24 “Bravery is not about the absence of fear, but of continuing on despite it. We want to give credit where it is due, and we
want to demonstrate to this next generation – who have already faced so much – that we believe in them, and we will invest in them and their futures.” Are you part of the Next Generation of Brave? Nominate and Win.
Are you an aspiring, current or recently graduated healthcare student or currently completing your community service year? Adcock Ingram OTC and News24 are encouraging you to nominate yourself or a deserving candidate and you could win one of 10 x R5000 weekly prizes. In addition, featured nominees could also stand a chance to win an impactful mentorship and two lucky students will walk away with R25 000 towards their studies. Mentor's will also be in line to win a trip to an overseas medical conference of their choice to the value of R50 000 and the opportunity to pay-it-forward by donating R25 000 to any registered NPO charity they wish to support. Visit https://partners.24.com/SponsorsofBrave/ website for more entry criteria, and to nominate yourself, a worthy candidate or to become a mentor.
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JUMP FEET FIRST INTO SUMMER WITH NO NAIL-SHAMING The first steps of open-toed freedom into the warm weather across South Africa need not be shaming for fingers and toes that have spent too long under the covers of lockdown and winter. Shannon te Roller, GM of Mundipharma SA, distributors of Betadine® products in Southern Africa, says unsightly nails on feet and hands are a real part of the social anxiety of stepping out into summer weather. “But feet can now be prepared to put their best selves forward with our exciting new Betadine™ Emtrix™ Fungal Nail Solution. The product is clinically proven to improve nail appearance in one week1A – and
it’s the number one nail solution in the USA, Sweden and Taiwan.”2,3,4 Betadine™ Emtrix™ Fungal Nail Solution is used to treat discoloured and deformed nails resulting from fungal infection or psoriasis1B – and within eight weeks, it improves nail thickening, discolouration, brittleness and softness. Results are noticeable after one week of treatment.5 Fungal nail infections affect 19% of adults across the world6, 50% of the elderly7, as well as children8. Psoriasis affects 2-3%9B of the population, 80% of whom could have nail psoriasis9A. Betadine™ Emtrix™ Fungal Nail Solution is
applied directly to the site of infection and changes the nail itself, improving the surface and keeping it in good condition.1B,C “Fungal infections and nail psoriasis can be painful and far more than a cosmetic nuisance,” adds Te Roller. “Betadine™ Emtrix™ Fungal Nail Solution is another innovative product from Mundipharma which keeps putting its best feet forward in its efforts to meet medical needs in South Africa.” BETADINE™ EMTRIX™ Fungal Nail Solution is currently available at selected Clicks stores and leading pharmacies across South Africa.
Images Supplied
Issue 14 - November 2020
Your Wellness Matters
HONOUR THE BRAVE: NOMINEES Nominee 1
Fifth-year medical student, Sibongumenzi Mtshali (Menzi) says she has seen first-hand what access to medical healthcare providers can do for people, for communities. This rising star from Stellenbosch University has been paired with Dr Liana Roodt, a surgeon and founder of Project Flamingo, a breast cancer-focused NGO. Originally from a rural town in KwaZulu-Natal, at the age of eight, Menzi lost her grandmother to sepsis after an arm injury turned septic. Years later, Menzi and her family experienced another trauma, receiving very little support at the time. Consequently, she made the decision to dedicate her life to helping others.
Nominee 2
PHD candidate from the University of Cape Town, Veneshley Samuels is from Atlantis in the Cape Flats, and says that many families, living in close quarters together, contracted tuberculosis and this experience has driven her to want to specialise in TB research. Veneshley was paired with mentor Dr. Andani Mulelu, a biochemist and research scientist at the University of Cape Town's Drug Discovery and Development Research Unit. Dr. Mulelu's field of study is molecular biology, protein engineering and structural biology which he is harnessing towards developing a rapid test to diagnose tuberculosis.
Nominee 3
Julian Sheldon is a Masters student in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, who loves learning in order to help those around him. His friends applaud him for the perseverance and determination he has shown in his studies and life, and for the commitment he has shown in the frontlines against Covid-19. With his eagerness to learn, comes his appreciation for learning from others. "Mentorship is valuable for young and new healthcare professionals because we are novices in this field," Julian says. "Mentorship provides this form of guidance." Julian found his mentor in Essential Health Pharmacy in Kuilsrivier pharmacist Leon Brits for whom he worked for three years — sharing a close bond and great respect for one another.
Nominee 4
Bravery isn't just doing. It's courage with action. It's persevering when there's resistance." This is the lesson that Vivian Chengalroyan, a PhD candidate in Pharmacy at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, has taken out of the Covid-19 pandemic. She says being a healthcare professional during these trying times has changed her outlook on the future and heightened her passion for helping others. Her mentor, leading pharmacist Dr. Sham Moodley from Care Naraj Pharmacy in Durban highlighted Vivian's commitment and dedication, "What Vivian brings to the table is a loving personality which I think is critical for patient care," Dr. Moodley says.
Nominee 5
MbChb student, Cameron Joseph who understands that a good doctor treats a disease, but a great doctor treats a patient. Growing up with two parents in the healthcare industry, Cameron Joseph has always seen medicine as his home and the place where he belongs. "It's always been the niche where I wanted to make a difference," says this 4th year MbChb student. With his passion for paediatrics and community health, Cameron was paired with mentor Professor Liesl Zühlke. An award winning leader in her field of paediatric cardiology and a research and global health advocate, Zühlke is the associate Professor in Paediatric Cardiology at the Red Cross Children's Hospital.
Images Supplied
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Issue 14 - November 2020
WITH MENTAL ILLNESS ON THE RISE, DISABILITY INSURANCE CAN BE LIFE-SAVING As evidence of a sharp spike in mental illness continues to mount, experts are in little doubt that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re living through a profound global trauma. The full extent of the crisis is yet to become clear, but we do know that more and more people are unable to work due to psychiatric disorders. Disability insurance can play a key healing role here by providing individuals and families with the means to focus on recovery. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s according to Dr Kerissa Naidoo, Old Mutualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chief Medical Officer, who points out that mental illness numbers were already on the rise â&#x20AC;&#x201D; even before Covid-19 brought an entirely new level of daily uncertainty â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and predicts a further increase for 2020. Old Mutualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2019 personal cover claim statistics show that the group has paid out 59% more in psychiatric disorder claims under disability income cover since 2016. The majority of claimants were adults of prime working age, with 83% aged between 30 and 50, and major depression was the reason for 62% of the psychiatric claims. There can be no doubt that the significantly more extreme pressures of 2020 will be taking their toll on this already embattled group. The Old Mutual Savings and Investment Monitor Covid-19 Special Report, released in July, revealed that 52% of working South Africans are responsible for an adult dependent (up from 43% in 2019). At the same time, 57% are earning less than they were at the beginning of lockdown and 58% are feeling great financial stress. Unsurprisingly, many are struggling to keep up, with 37% having fallen behind on household bills (up from 24% in 2019) and 32% have fallen behind on personal loan repayments. Breaking a life-threatening cycle
The risk of a vicious cycle is real. When financial stress contributes to mental
illness, such as debilitating anxiety and depression, then being unable to work only increases the anxiety about money and makes the condition worse. While psychiatric conditions continue to carry the stigma of being â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;only in your headâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, they are, in fact, frequently life-threatening. In addition to the steep increase in claims for psychiatric disorders, Old Mutual also saw the number of death claims as a result of suicide jump by almost a quarter (24%) from 2018 to 2019. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good disability insurance can make all the difference when it comes to recovery,â&#x20AC;? explains John Kotze, Head of Protection Solutions at Old Mutual. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When you suffer a major mental health setback, the last thing you need is to be worried about money or having to go back to work before youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready. If you find yourself out of action â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and none of us are immune, especially now â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the income protection that disability insurance provides means you can continue taking care of your dependents and meeting your financial commitments.â&#x20AC;? Part of a ground-breaking new range of personal cover that responds to your individual needs and budget, Old Mutual Disability Income Cover provides up to 24 monthly payments if you are impaired, unable to work or canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take care of yourself due to an illness (including mental illness) or injury. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, you can add the Income Extender Benefit to continue these monthly payments until you recover and can work again, or your cover ends. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Recovery is a journey that canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be rushed,â&#x20AC;? says Kotze. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Income Extender Benefit recognises this and means youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not under pressure to get back to work until youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re truly ready.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Covid-19 has brought the fragility of life into sharp focus and made it clear that absolutely no one is invincible,â&#x20AC;? says Kotze. Knowing you have good
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Issue 14 - November 2020
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TIPS TO KEEP YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES HEALTHY AND SAFE THIS FESTIVE SEASON The festive season is here! After a year of unprecedented stress – this is a time of much needed relaxation, good food, and ideally many happy moments with family and friends. That said, it’s important to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy in all aspects during the year-end festivities. Crime rates increase during the festive season – and while we often focus on our homes and travel plans when it comes to staying safe during the holidays, being safe encompasses a lot more than we realise. A medical emergency in many shapes and forms can happen at any time and these could catch you by surprise if you are not prepared! No need to panic though - with your health and safety in mind, here are some tips to keep you and your loved ones safe during the holidays:
your home – a good place is the fridge. Make sure that these contacts are updated regularly and that they include your preferred medical and security response providers as well as a friend or family member. It is also a good idea to keep a copy of this list in your car and save the info on your phone. If you are going away, be sure to establish where the nearest hospital and police station, to where you are staying, are.
in place with your family and loved ones. Make it a habit to let someone know where you are going, when you get there, when you are leaving and when you are safely home. That way if they don’t hear from you, they will be alerted to the fact that something may be wrong.
Know who to contact Every emergency situation is different, and the exact procedures of how to handle the emergency may vary – but one thing that will always be your first point of call is to get help. If disaster strikes, you might not have time to search for emergency numbers. You may also be too stressed and panicky to think straight.
Carry an I.C.E card Create an In Case of Emergency card for yourself and each member of your family to carry with you. This should include name, medical conditions, medical aid details and a contact name and number. Should anything unforeseen happen and you are unable to communicate, this will assist responders in getting you the help you need.
A great solution for any one in an emergency situation is the mySOS stand-alone panic button which is a wearable panic button that allows you to alert your pre-determined emergency contacts wherever you are with the simple press of a button. The mySOS panic button comes with a variety of life saving features, all the user needs to do is press the Panic Button and the mySOS system activate your emergency. Your contacts will be notified with your GPS location, type of emergency and other relevant details.
Ensure you have a list of emergency contacts printed out and stuck up in a central point in
Communicate with your family Be sure to have a good communication plan
To find out more visit www.mysos.co.za or join the conversation on Facebook.
Advertorial
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Your Wellness Matters
Issue 14 - November 2020
