YOUR WELLNESS MATTERS | ISSUE 17 | MARCH 2021

Your

March 2021 – Issue 17

Matters The community paper to whom your wellness matters. facebook.com/yourwellnessza

@YourWellnessZA

@your_wellness_za PUBLISHING

From left to right: Preshcilla Yerriah, Razina Kader, Dr Struwig, John (Tito) Rathbone, and Annie Mandrie.

NETCARE PUTS PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT Jehad Kasu

About two weeks ago Cape Town resiClubs. He walks regularly and runs up to dent Johnathan Rathbone (Tito) his wife 8kms without a huff and a puff. About Desiree (Des) and their two daughters two weeks ago after his regular walk/run, set off from Cape Town to Joburg to visit he experienced a sharp pain on his chest some friends before making their promotion jourbut support. thought nothing sinister of it and a symbol for breastfeeding protection, and ney to Durban where they were to spend brushed it off. some time away together.

On Sunday the 7th of March while in It was supposed to be a relaxing break Durban, Tito experienced another for them from the lockdown fatigue they instance of excruciating pain on his were experiencing back home. But chest. Again, he brushed it off. The things took a near fatal turn for Tito Monday Tito and family drove from before they could make their way back Durban to back to Joburg, from where home. Tito, 62, is an otherwise healthy they were scheduled to take a flight back person who leads an above average home to Cape Town the following day. active lifestyle having played professional soccer for many years for teams such While driving the intense chest pains as PG Rangers and Brothers Football returned, and Tito said to Des that he

The Golden Bow

PARTNERS:

would have it checked out by his GP once he got to Cape Town. Des however insisted that he get it checked before they leave because it is unlike him to have such consistent and severe discomfort. After much insistence by her Tito agreed and went to a see a GP in Joburg that Monday afternoon.

Dr van der Merwe, the GP who examined him, did an ECG and said that he needs immediate hospitilisation and referred him to the Netcare Mulbarton Hospital – he was suffering from a heart attack.

Continued on page 3

2

Your Wellness Matters

Advertisement

Issue 17 - March 2021

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.

TEAM:

Advertising ywmads@44tenmedia.co.za

Managing Publisher | Jehad Kasu Business Development Manager | Dali Chiwara Design & Studio Manager | Mishqa Bassardien

Printing Paarl Coldset Published by 44Ten Media Publishing

Writers: Zagreb Kline, Refiloe Nomdada, Tsolofelo Mhabe

Contributors • • • •

Western Cape Government: Health Heart and Stroke Foundation CANSA Metrorail

ywm@44tenmedia.co.za

Address:

+27 (0)72 365 4037 (Cpt)

3 George Street

+27 (0)11 886 1343 (Jhb)

Athlone

www.44tenmedia.co.za

Cape Town

PUBLISHING

Issue 17 - March 2021

Your Wellness Matters

3

NETCARE PUTS PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT During this time Tito was in severe pain and could barely comprehend what was happening. Upon arrival at Netcare Mulbarton’s emergency department between 3-4pm, he was stabalised but not admitted because he does not have medical aid.

The ED staff called several State hospitals to establish if they had a bed to receive Tito for further appropriate care before they sent him onward – none of them did. Understanding how grave Tito’s condition was, one of the attending nurses triggered the hospital protocol which is to inform the Night Shift Manager of the situation, who will then make contact with the hospital’s General Manager to make a call on what to do. According to the hospital’s GM Razina Kader, “It is times like these where the sanctity of life should be most important. We’ve seen how fragile life can be during the Covid pandemic. So I gave them the instruction to contact our Netcare Foundation to request approval for Mr Rathbone to be treated at our cost and to contact the receiving hospital (Netcare Milpark Hospital) to inform them once the approval has been received.”

Razina goes on to say, “Credit must be given to all role-players in this instance, especially

our emergency department staff who did everything they could to ensure Mr Rathbone was well taken care of in line with our organisation’s core values and ethos.” Speaking to Tito from the Netcare Milpark Hospital where the operation was done, he said he was not aware of all that was happening at the time, “To be honest, I was in so much pain initially and then slightly delirious because of the morphine I’d been given. I know that around 3am on Tuesday morning the cardiac surgeon arrived, and I was almost immediately wheeled into theatre.

When I was taken into the recovery area the surgeon asked me how I felt then, and I replied saying that I felt much better already.

It’s only when he responded to that saying, “I’m not sure how you survived with two blockages as bad as yours, Dr van der Merwe did an incredible job to get you here so soon. I am immensely grateful for my life being spared and for the role that everyone played in my life being saved.

Thank you to the Netcare Foundation and to Bonisiwe Mbongwa and Linda Wells, the incredible humans (at Netcare Mulbarton Hospital) who initiated the process to alert management of my precarious situation,

and ultimately saved my life.” This is an incredible story of a corporate citizen acting with an admirable sense of humanity. The cost of Mr Rathbone’s hospital bill exceeded R150 000,00 and will be covered in full by the Netcare Foundation. Tito is recovering well and is set to be discharged from Milpark Netcare on Monday the 15th of March.

Razina Kader, Netcare Mulbarton & Vaalpark GM.

FOR YOUR FINANCIAL WELLNESS

4

Your Wellness Matters

Issue 17 - March 2021

STREAM, STRETCH AND FLEX: 5 SIMPLE STRETCHES TO DO AT HOME Supplied Content

Let's face it, after a long day of work or taking care of others, we all look forward to flopping down on a couch and watching our favorite TV shows. But sitting all day results in stiff joints while moving helps people lengthen and strengthen muscles to reduce injury, especially as we age. According to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), adults should do flexibility exercises two to three times per week. But many of us find incorporating stretching into a jammed packed week difficult to schedule. Consider this: by doing just five simple exercises per night, you can get your workout in and not miss a beat of your favorite show.

Let's begin with what you need to get started. Most likely, you have already changed into your comfy pants and shirt at the end of the day. If not, put on some sweats or loose-fitting clothes to help make movement easy and unrestricted. If possible, grab an exercise or yoga mat, but if you have carpet, that works too. That's it. Now turn on the TV and get ready to stretch into the evening.

• Neck Stretching: This is a simple but excellent stretching exercise for your neck that can be done anytime and anywhere. I’ve found myself doing it on plane rides to relieve the tension of sitting for hours, while others find it helpful to do while sitting at their desk. Some people would do neck rolls with the head tilting forward and back as part of a stretch routine– that exercise puts too much stress on the neck and can cause injury • Stand straight and look forward. Relax your shoulders and gently tilt your head towards one shoulder. Be aware not to push yourself too far and if this doesn't feel right, then stop the stretch. Try to hold for three seconds.

• Tilt your head to the other side, gently stretch your neck. You should feel a gentle

stretch and then return to the start position, with eyes straight forward.

• Repeat this exercise 10 times.

• Downward Facing Dog: Even if you have never taken a yoga class, you may have heard of downward dog-- this classic yoga pose stretches your back, chest, and hamstrings.

• Begin on your hands and knees. Ensure your hands are under your shoulders and knees under your hips, so you are in as square a position as possible.

• Lift your tailbone, drawing your hips toward the ceiling. Straighten your legs as best as you can and press your heels gently toward the floor.

• Relax your head between your arms, facing your knees. Your back should be flat. Ideally, work up to holding the position for 60 seconds.

• Hamstring Helper: Sitting in a chair all day creates tight hamstrings – those tendons and muscles at the back your thighs.

• Take your left foot forward and tip from the hips, keeping the back flat.

• Lower down until you feel a stretch in the

back of the leg.

• Rest the hands on the upper thighs to give your back some support.

• Hold for 15 to 30 seconds and switch sides, repeating one to three times.

• Triceps Stretch: to improve upper arm mobility and help prevent tight muscles, stretch our triceps. This move is a simple and effective stretch.

• Lift one arm above your head while standing and bend at the elbow to reach down behind your neck. Use your free hand to push that raised arm further down behind your head gently. Repeat with the opposite arm.

• Child's Pose: this is a great way to end your stretches and is an incredibly comfortable position. This movement can not only relieve tension in the lower back, but many have found it also effective in reducing stress and anxiety.

• Kneel on your mat or carpet with your knees wider than hip-width apart and your feet together behind you.

• Sit back on your heels (as best as you can) and fold forward, resting your belly on your thighs. Extend your arms out in front of you and rest your forehead on the floor. You'll feel this stretch in your shoulders and back, in addition to your hips and glutes.

• Modify your stretch, if you're having trouble getting your bottom to reach your heels, by placing a rolled-up blanket between your thighs and calves.

• Press your chest and shoulders gently toward the ground to deepen the stretch.

• Hold for at least 30 seconds.

Watching TV, especially at the end of a hectic day, is the ultimate wind down that many of us crave. Why not combine this downtime with stretching to relax your body and your mind? It takes just 5 impactful and effective moves to create a more flexible and healthier body.

Advertorial

Issue 17 - March 2021

Your Wellness Matters

5

6

Your Wellness Matters

Issue 17 - March 2021

EXCESSIVE SALT INTAKE IS MORE DANGEROUS THAN YOU THINK! Partner Content

World Salt Awareness Week: 8 - 14 March 2021 ‘More flavour – less salt’ Hypertension - or high blood pressure is a serious medical condition that significantly increases the risks of heart, brain, kidney and other diseases. It is a major cause of premature death worldwide. An estimated 1.13 billion people worldwide have hypertension, with two-thirds living in low- and middle-income countries. In South Africa, the prevalence of hypertension is 35% and it is estimated that 90% of patients are not adequately controlled. One of the global targets for noncommunicable diseases set in 2010, is to reduce the prevalence of hypertension by 25% by 2025.

There is a strong correlation between a high blood pressure and increased dietary sodium (salt) intake. Both the South African and International Hyper-

tension Guidelines recommend the following actions for treating hypertension: • Reducing salt intake to less than 5g daily • Eating more fruit and vegetables • Being physically active on a regular basis • Avoiding use of tobacco • Reducing alcohol consumption • Limiting the intake of foods high in saturated fats • Eliminating/reducing trans fats in diet With salt reduction being such a cost-effective way of reducing the incidence of hypertension, the World Action on Salt and Health (WASH) www.worldactiononsalt.com was set up in 2005 and it works closely with the World Health Organization, to develop comprehensive strategies for salt reduction worldwide. WASH organises the World Salt Awareness

Week, which in 2021, takes place from 8 14 March. The theme this year is 'More Flavour, Less Salt'! WesternCape on Wellness (WoW!) www.westerncape.gov.za/westerncape-on-wellness has adopted the whole of March for a Salt Awareness Campaign to: • Create awareness and educate people about the dangers of excess salt.

• Get a grasp on how excess salt intake is linked to hypertension and other health conditions.

• Help people understand food labels and better monitor their daily salt intake.

• Make better food and ingredient choices when eating and preparing food.

• Provide weekly healthy low-salt recipes.

• Provide tips on exercising if hypertensive.

We recommend you follow the campaign by joining WoW!s Facebook page

Continued on page 7

Continued on page 7

Issue 17 - March 2021

7

Your Wellness Matters

EXCESSIVE SALT INTAKE IS MORE DANGEROUS THAN YOU THINK! Partner Content

(WoW! WesternCape on Wellness) or alternatively sign up to the WhatsApp group for messages three times a week. You can do this by adding 066 390 6646 to your phone contacts and then sending the words Join WoW + Name & Surname.

The following series of infographics are just a sample of those that will be shared in the campaign.

1. Reducing Salt – Saving Lives (see attachment 1).

2. Excess Salt and your Health (see attachment 2).

3. How does too much salt cause Hypertension? (see attachment 3).

Weekly, the WoW! Salt Awareness campaign provides salt tables of different food groups, produced by Pharma Dynamics and the Heart and Stroke Foundation, with 5 suggested swap outs for healthier choices. WoW! also shares an

accompanying recipe using the suggested lower-salt food items. Below is an example of the Meat and Proteins salt chart and suggested swap-outs.

4. Meat & Proteins Salt Chart – suggested swap-outs (see attachment 4).

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives in so many ways. Restrictions to help slow the spread of the virus have meant spending much more time at home rather than eating out in restaurants or at friends. With home cooking on the go, it’s an ideal opportunity to get creative in the kitchen with new or adjusted recipes that are full of flavour but that are lower in salt and healthier.

5. The 5th infographic mentions ten ways to reduce your salt intake and so improve your health (see attachment 5).

One of the best ways of assessing just

how much salt (sodium) you take in daily, is to check food labels. Perhaps you add very little extra salt to your food, but without knowing it you are consuming foods very high in salt. The WoW! campaign also covers reading food labels and gives you an idea of what sodium levels to look out for. In a nutshell, foods containing less than 120mg per portion are ideal considering you can safely consume about 2000mg of sodium per day. Those containing between 120 – 600mg per serving, be wary of and monitor your intake carefully. Those containing more than 600mg per serving – avoid outright!

Have your blood pressure measured at least twice annually and monthly if you have a raised blood pressure. Remember that there is much you can do to look after your health. Be empowered, make the right choices and enjoy the many health benefits you reap!

Continued on page 8

8

Your Wellness Matters

Issue 17 - March 2021

EXCESSIVE SALT INTAKE IS MORE DANGEROUS THAN YOU THINK! Partner Content

Issue 17 - March 2021

Your Wellness Matters

EXCESSIVE SALT INTAKE IS MORE DANGEROUS THAN YOU THINK! Partner Content

9

10

Your Wellness Matters

Issue 17 - March 2021

EXCESSIVE SALT INTAKE IS MORE DANGEROUS THAN YOU THINK! Partner Content

Your Wellness Matters

Issue 17 - March 2021

11

WORLD OBESITY DAY Partner Content

World Obesity Day (WOD), driven by the World Obesity Federation (WOF) is a global campaign, observed annually on the 4th of March, to raise awareness around various health factors contributing to obesity. The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA), a member of the WOF is working together with the South African Non-Communicable Disease Alliance (SANCDA), the National Department of Health (NDOH), and other organizations around the world to spread the WOD 2021 message “EveryBody Needs Everybody. This is a way of emphasizing that obesity is not only a lifestyle condition but can be observed as a complex disease that increases the risks of other health problems and diseases, such as heart diseases, diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, skeletal problems, sleep apnea, COVID-19, reproductive problems, and certain cancers.

obesity is 1.9 billion people overweight, 800 million people obese, and 340 million children obese. In the South African context, there are an estimate of 31% men, 68% women, and 13% children classified as overweight or obese (according to Statistics SA, 2020).

The ‘Everybody’ campaign is about coming together and calling upon everybody to acknowledge that obesity is a disease. We call on broader society, governments, policymakers, food industries, healthcare professionals, and corporations to play their part in combating this crisis and not contribute to it.

Everybody needs healthcare, access to healthy food, protection from those who benefit from promoting unhealthy lifestyles.

Obesity is not just about individuals, everybody should acknowledge it, play their part in creating a safer and healthier environment that doesn’t discriminate against people with obesity.

We are in the middle of an obesity epidemic, and COVID-19 has layered a crisis on a crisis.

If we are to move forward, it has to be together. The HSFSA acknowledges the rapidly evolving COVID-19 research and the growing evidence that is linking COVID-19 with Obesity. Obesity is the main risk factor for comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and CVD and it has been widely acknowledged that these comorbidities are associated with a more severe course of the virus. However, some recent reports have also shown a strong association between obesity and the severity of COVID-19 infection despite the absence of other comorbidities.

Furthermore, clinical evidence is linking obesity to worse outcomes in patients with COVID-19 where there is an increased risk for the development of severe pneumonia.

The WHO has developed the “Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCD’s) 2013 2020”, which aims to achieve the commitments of the UN Political Declaration on NCD’s and contribute to attaining the targets by 2025, including a 25% reduction in premature mortality from NCD’s by 2025 and halt the rise of global obesity.

Obesity is defined as an abnormal or excessive accumulation of fat in the body, that can have adverse effects on health as it affects adults and children equally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) obesity report of April 2020, the global prevalence of

Dr. Vicki Pinkney-Atkinson, Director for the SANCDA, says “obesity is a complex health condition and requires comprehensive solutions, treatment, and collective responsibility to treat and we need to understand that!”

Professor Pamela Naidoo, CEO of HSFSA

adds “Understanding your environment and the causes of obesity can help us adapt and make behavioural changes despite the challenges that we face. We encourage people to seek out opportunities to live healthier, increase activity levels and eat better. We will continue to work towards a healthier environment for all South Africans. “Knowing that obesity is not entirely your fault’ can be empowering.’

The HSFSA endorsement program which includes the Heart Mark and Diabetes South Africa (DSA) programs is one such tool that makes it easier for members of the public to purchase or make healthier food choices when faced with a variety of options at the supermarket. It helps consumers identify healthier products that contain less added sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, and more fibre compared to other similar products.

The Foundations Health Promotion Manager, Dana Govender, and Nutrition Team Leader, Hayley Cimring encourage South Africans to consume food products that are recommended by the Foundation as part of a healthy meal plan.

Prof Naidoo encourages members of the public to access the information on our website and attend the webinar we have planned for WOD 2021.

Interviews will be conducted with our Health Promotions Team, Dieticians and CEO, Professor Pamela Naidoo and other relevant experts. To co-ordinate and confirm interview dates you are welcome to contact the Public Relations and Communications Department on 021 422 1586 or Sasha Forbes PR, Communications & Marketing Officer. Email: sasha.forbes@heartfoundation.co.za WhatsApp Number: 076 775 6652

12

Your Wellness Matters

Issue 17 - March 2021

IS HEALTH PASSPORT SOUTH AFRICA OUR TICKET TO BIG EVENTS AMID THE PANDEMIC? Supplied Content

Test and Protect: Health Passport South Africa plans to collaborate with the intention of reopening opportunities in travel and tourism, business, events of all types, and job creation on a national level.

Health Passport South Africa combines secure mobile technology with official Covid-19 tests and vaccinations. The user-friendly mobile app enables people to efficiently receive their test results, and automatically delivers the certified documents directly to their mobile phones. The overall platform works with tests and vaccinations that are administered by medical professionals.

Security and data privacy form the core of the technology. The Health Passport Worldwide app does not track peoples’ locations, it does not use Bluetooth, nor GPS, and does not monitor people’s usage of the system.

Data is not shared with any third parties.

Health Passport mobile technology eliminates the potential for fraud and fake paper documents. By using the secure mobile system, airports and airlines can now scan peoples’ QR codes, similar to a boarding pass, making the entire process streamlined, enabling aircraft to take off on time.

Health Passport South Africa recently launched its flagship Covid-19 testing centre at The Lookout Waterfront in Cape Town and provides PCR and rapid Antigen tests. The professional setup enables 275 people to be tested every hour. As demand increases, this will immediately scale up to 550 people per hour. Test results are securely shared

through the Health Passport mobile app.

Arthur Goldstuck founder of World Wide Worx says, “The technology is seamless, and more important, it’s straightforward, using functionality that is widely available, integrated in a way and for a purpose that has massive potential for positive impact.”

athletic superstar and 400m world record holder, “Globally we need to get spectators back into stadiums. There is nothing like the feeling of having the crowd cheering you on, and I hope this will be possible for the Tokyo Games. Health Passport is a key to getting fans back in the stands.”

As international travel and tourism dropped by almost 90% in South Africa, the solution offers hope that a better year lies ahead.

With major sporting events planned, such as The British & Irish Lions Rugby Tour and the Cape Argus Cycle Tour, this technology and testing process offers a viable solution to enable these major initiatives to take place.

The system was proven in South Africa in December 2020, when a live music event called Recharge 2020 was staged using Health Passport technology and following Covide-19 protocols. Prior to the event, attendees including staff, performers and guests were required to download the mobile app. On the day of the event, they were tested using the latest rapid Antigen tests that are validated for use in South Africa. Within 15 minutes of receiving a safe ‘green light’, they were scanned into the event. YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QOQCUngy0K4

Says Robert Quirke, Founder of Health Passport Worldwide, “You can imagine that overnight a global tourism industry closed down, airports - like Cape Town International that sees 11 million passengers a year - shut down, and with a 90% drop in international traffic. This coupled with jobs losses that left families with no hope on the horizon for over a year, spurring the need to get life back on track again.”

Referencing sports, tourism and events, Quirke continues, “Similarly with the British & Irish Lions Rugby Tour scheduled this year, we now have the technology, processes and experience to safely host it in South Africa, including testing right near the Greenpoint Stadium. We are working with high levels of authorities and government bodies to make it happen for the Country.”

Says Wayde Van Niekerk, South African

Justin Van Wyk, CEO of Big Concerts says, “This was an important moment for the events industry which has been devastated by the pandemic. The Health Passport Worldwide technology platform enabled this event to proceed with the highest levels of risk mitigation, demonstrating the way forward for live events globally.”

Health Passport Worldwide is rolling out Covid-19 testing centres throughout South Africa and will support the efficient deployment of vaccinations, keeping such digital records for anyone who wishes to make use of the service. www.healthpassportsouthafrica.co.za

Issue 17 - March 2021

Your Wellness Matters

13

I am for Her Partner Content

One of the most important health screening tests for a woman, is a Pap Smear done every second year. This test can sound scary and awkward, but ensuring you have no cervical damage or infections is worth the discomfort.

Did you know?

• Damage to your cervix, the entrance of the womb, is not just caused by penetrative sex.

You can also be infected by using contraceptives.

• Whether you're sexually active or not, you still need a Pap smear.

• It is important to be checked regularly as earlier negative results might change because malignant cells can later become cancerous.

WHAT IS A PAP SMEAR and why should I get one?

A Pap smear or Pap test (short for Papanicolaou test) examines cells taken from the cervix under a microscope. These cells are scraped from the cervix using a brush that's inserted through the vagina. This is a test for cervical cancer and other sexually transmitted infections.

Your doctor might also check your overall reproductive health by asking questions about your personal life. This is a necessary part of the examination in order for the physician to provide you with important advice.

WHEN SHOULD I HAVE ONE? Everyone woman, regardless of sexual of

Natalie Jardine Head of Brand: I am For Her

activity, is encouraged to have a pap smear once a year.

WHY ARE PAP SMEARS IMPORTANT? Cervical cancer is one of the top ten most common cancers amongst South African women. The good news is that it's also one of the most preventable and curable. Early

diagnosis is important, so make sure you keep your body at its best by having regular check-ups. If you have any questions about women’s health, email us on info@iamforherfoundation.co.za

BUDGET SPEECH MAKES THE HEALTH AND WEALTH OF SOUTH AFRICANS A PRIORITY South African taxpayers heaved a collective sigh of relief when Finance Minister Tito Mboweni revealed during the recently delivered Budget Speech that Treasury had opted against the introduction of the R40 billion in tax measures initially proposed in the October Medium Term Budget Policy Statement. Smokers and drinkers were not as lucky and will have to cough up 8% more in excise duties.

“We welcome the Minister’s announcement of these and other changes that aim to positively impact the physical and financial wellbeing of South Africans,” says Johan Josling, Chief Executive Officer at Episodic Health, the only personalised health insurance on the market today.

He continues: “The 5% increase on personal income tax brackets means that all individual taxpayers will pay less in income tax this year than they did in the previous tax year. This is an opportunity for South Africans to use the money they save toinvest in their health and wealth, especially as we await the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine to the public at large.

While medical aids might be too great an expense for many consumers, there is an alternative – health insurance, which is designed to provide cover for unexpected events when you need it most.”

Josling commends Government’s decision not to fund the COVID-19 vaccine programme with additional taxpayer

money but to instead allocate more than R10 billion for the purchase and delivery of vaccines over the next two years. “With the country having an unemployment rate of 32.5%, this would have been grossly unfair on those who are still clinging to their jobs following the devastation of the COVID-19 crisis. I am pleased too that Government has put in place a no‐fault compensation fund to cover claims in the unlikely event of any severe vaccine injuries and look forward to hearing more about these allocations.”

He concludes by saying: “The Budget Speech made the health and wealth of South Africans a priority and I urge my fellow countrymen and women to do the same.”

14

Your Wellness Matters

Issue 17 - March 2021

CANSA PARTICIPATES IN LUNG CANCER RESEARCH WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF KWAZULU-NATAL Partner Content

CANSA is partnering with the University of KwaZulu- Natal-Multinational Lung Cancer Control Programme (UKZN-MLCCP) under the leadership of Dr Themba Ginindza and other Co-Principal Investigators for a three-year period. View Lung Cancer fact sheet.

The purpose of the programme is to improve knowledge and awareness of lung cancer, its risk factors and symptoms, and to positively affect community attitudes towards lung cancer screening and diagnosis. Further goals are to increase the uptake of lung cancer screening in high-risk groups through community mobilisation at identified sites with community screening services as provided by the project team leaders. #LungCancer #CANSAresearch #CANSAadvocacy CANSA will focus on establishing community screening and community support services; provide multi-level training for community fieldworkers; promote palliative care services for lung cancer patients and track patient outcomes.

Lorraine Govender, CANSA’s Manager, in KwaZulu-Natal elaborates, “Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths amongst men and women worldwide, and in South Africa, it is the number one cause of cancer-related deaths. The National Cancer Registry reported that, in 2017, lung cancer was the third most diagnosed cancer amongst men and the fifth most amongst women. According to Bruni, et al. (2019), the 2018 burden of lung cancer in South Africa was estimated at 8 239 and 7 770 annual lung cancer cases and deaths,

respectively. As captured in the 2017 National Cancer Registry Report, lung cancer remains one of the top cancers among men and women in South Africa.” Most commonly, many patients present to health facilities with advanced symptoms of lung cancer.

This project will address the identified gaps in lung cancer awareness and early diagnosis through a multi-faceted and sustained awareness programme targeted at five communities located in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.

“Public private partnerships of this nature certainly strengthens CANSA’s footprint in communities at grassroots level allowing more communities to benefit from education and awareness on common cancers affecting the South African public. Early detection can save lives”, added Govender.

The programme also aims to screen people, educate about symptoms and empower them with information to promote early awareness and detection. Referrals will be made to appropriate clinics or hospitals for further investigation and medical care. The programme is to make use of trained volunteers to engage with communities on various platforms, including talks, events, exhibitions in public spaces, videos in health and clinic facilities, media interviews, social media and print media.

Siyabonga Dlamini from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, adds, “The overall goal of the MLCCP is to improve access to early diagnostic services for lung cancer by addressing the barriers of cancer care through working with communities and the Ministries of Health in the identified regions in four countries (South Africa, Kenya, Swaziland, and Tanza-

nia), with a potential for scale-up. We’re excited to partner with CANSA in Phase Two of the programme. We need to positively influence attitudes towards lung cancer screening and improve lung cancer screening in risk groups.” The main risk factor for lung cancer (internationally) is tobacco smoking. Lung cancer is more common among men. As more women have started smoking, the number of women developing lung cancer has been on the increase. However, while lung cancer is pervasive among smokers, it is not limited to them, as people who do not smoke can also develop lung cancer. Approximately 10–15% of people who get lung cancer have never smoked.

Other risk factors include the effects of past cancer treatment and exposure to asbestos, radon gas and – in very rare cases – substances such as uranium, chromium and nickel. Lung cancer is not infectious and can’t be passed on to other people. Govender concludes, “Volunteers are being trained in February and will attend Palliative care training to be conducted by one of the Bristol-Meyers Squibb Foundation partners who is an ardent advocate of palliative care in South Africa. Certain sites in Durban and Pietermaritzburg have already been identified for the awareness and screening phase that will be rolled out in early March and will strictly adhere to the applicable COVID-19 and lockdown restrictions, as they may be revised from time-to-time.”

(For more information, please contact Lucy Balona, Head: Marketing and Communication at CANSA at email lbalona@cansa.org.za. Call 011 616 7662 or mobile 082 459 5230.)

Issue 17 - March 2021

Your Wellness Matters

15

“THE BEST WAY TO HONOUR THOSE WE HAVE LOST IS TO KEEP ON STAYING SAFE AND SAVING LIVES” Supplied Content

Exactly a year ago today I gathered with Premier Alan Winde at Tygerberg Hospital, not far from this venue, to announce that the Western Cape had recorded its first confirmed case of Covid-19.

Since then we have faced one of the most challenging years in our country’s history.

It has been a period of great loss and heartbreak for many people across our province, as 11 319 people have lost their lives to Covid-19. 122 of those who died were healthcare workers, who went bravely to the frontline to help save the lives of others.

We remember each of these people today and commit to doing everything we can to continue saving lives in the year ahead.

While this past year has brought about great pain and loss, it has also shown us what is possible when we work together, with courage and determination.

Over the last year, the Western Cape has: • Opened world-class field hospitals in record time, including the Hospitals of Hope at the CTICC, Brackengate and Mitchells Plain • Delivered millions of medicine parcels directly to patients, through partnering with Uber • Pioneered the use of high flow nasal oxygen as a life-saving alternative to ventilation • Rolled out Dexamethasone across our hospitals to save the lives of those who were critically ill • Secured additional oxygen supplies for the Western Cape to manage increased demand during the Second Wave • Launched the Red Dot Transport services, that transported healthcare workers to work and patients to Q&I facilities • Reduced morbidity in people with Diabetes, through our award-winning VECTOR programme that monitored Covid-19 infection in this group • Provided full and accurate statistics daily, through an online interactive dashboard,

Left: Dr Keith Cloete, Western Cape

Dr Keith Cloete, Western Cape Department of Health HOD, Dr Nomafrench Mbombo MEC Western Cape Department of Health

which has also won awards • Committed to clean governance, by releasing a Covid-19 Procurement Disclosure Report every month • Employed more healthcare workers to ensure we had adequate capacity to respond to increased pressure • Added infrastructure at existing facilities that will create a legacy into the future • Worked with Faith-Based Organisations to create awareness on safety behaviour, through a dedicated Faith-Based Organization Network • Assisted businesses across the province to become Covid-19 compliant, to ensure safer workspaces • Launched major communication campaigns to create awareness amongst members of the public, including street pole posters, radio ads, text messages and social media adverts • Trained hundreds of healthcare workers to deliver Covid-19 vaccinations in the Western Cape • Undertaken comprehensive planning for vaccine rollout in subsequent phases • Provided pshyco-social support to health-

care workers who have dealt with great trauma during the last year All other Western Cape Government departments have also played an important role, as part of our “All-of-Government”“All-of-Society” approach, from supporting small businesses to providing PPE for learners at schools. We also responded to the humanitarian crisis that the Hard Lockdown caused, through several initiatives including supporting thousands of food gardens across the Western Cape.

I want to use this opportunity to thank officials of the Western Cape Government, NGOs, frontline workers, teachers, police officers and other essential workers for all you have done during the past year. You have done this all in the face of great anxiety and personal loss, and we honour you for what you have done.

I also want to thank each and every person who lives in the Western Cape for showing such courage over the last year. Millions of people in our province have worked hard to keep themselves and their loved ones safe this past year, and we thank you.

Looking forward, the best way we can honour those who we have lost since 11 March 2020 is to keep on saving lives in the year ahead. Vaccines are bringing real hope, but we need to continue ensuring we keep ourselves and our loved ones safe from Covid-19 until this pandemic ends.

To do this, we must carry on wearing our masks, avoiding the 3Cs of crowds, confined spaces and close contact, and by always practising good hygiene by washing or sanitising our hands often.

Partner Content

16

Your Wellness Matters

Issue 17 - March 2021

Partner Content

Issue 17 - March 2021

Your Wellness Matters

17

Partner Content

18

Your Wellness Matters

Issue 17 - March 2021

Issue 17 - March 2021

Your Wellness Matters

19

SOUTH AFRICANS HAPPIEST WHEN SPENDING TIME WITH LOVED ONES AND SIPPING TEA… Supplied Content

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on our lives. It has fundamentally changed the way we live, dress, work and interact with each other.

It has also forced us to hit the reset button and question what makes us truly happy.

To get a better picture of how the pandemic has shifted the South African psyche, the SA Rooibos Council (SARC) recently conducted a survey among close to 700 people of various ages and backgrounds across the country.

According to the poll, the top five pursuits that bring South Africans the most joy in 2021 are: 1. visiting with close friends and family (65%), 2. sipping a soothing cup of tea (56%), 3. being in nature (53%), 4. lending a helping hand to someone in need (39%), 5. a good night’s rest and laughing out loud (tied at 29%).

Others cited exercise (23%), reading a good book (22%), spending time with a furry friend (20%) and indulging in a sweet treat (18%) as their “happy place”.

Adele du Toit, spokesperson for the SARC says that based on the results from the poll, it is evident that the disruption of the pandemic and subsequent lockdown has changed how people talk about and conceptualise happiness.

“In many ways the pandemic has forced us to take a step back and reconsider the value we place on the simpler, more meaningful things in life.”

For those who find contentment in a cup of tea, 84% claimed Rooibos tea as their “happy tea”.

Seven in ten said drinking tea helps them to relax, while more than a third remarked that the daily ritual helps them to reflect and be happy in the moment.

Du Toit says mindfulness and tea go hand-in-hand.

“For many, a morning or evening cup of tea is their form of meditation. It sets the tone for the day ahead or helps them to unwind after a stressful day.”

Tea meditations are an ancient practice, which have been used over millennia to achieve mindful appreciation. Du Toit explains how it is practised: “As you sip your tea slowly, focus on bring-

ing the mind into the present, while drawing peace and quiet into the moment.

Bring your awareness into the here and now and align yourself into your day. Allow your thoughts to come and go without holding on to them. This is a wonderful way to stop overwhelming thoughts from taking over and to prepare the mind for the day’s challenges that lie ahead.”

She says even the act of brewing tea helps the mind to focus on the present. “Brewing tea demands our attention, which brings us into the present moment. As you brew your tea according to your individual preference for taste, it should serve as a reminder that you can craft only what you can control in life and to let go of what you can’t, in order to appreciate what you do have.”

After living through a pandemic for a year, where public health has been at the forefront of people’s minds, it comes as no surprise that the majority (96%) of respondents agreed that “happiness” has become more about well-being than pleasure-seeking. Nine out of ten said they could do with more comfort in 2021 with many admitting that last year was tough on them mentally.

“2020 was one of the most difficult years many of us have had to face and in times of crisis, we turn to comfort and want to spend our time and energy on doing things which leave us feeling content and happy.

“Tea ticks many of these boxes. Rooibos tea being rich in antioxidants and possessing

anti-inflammatory properties is as good for the heart as it is for the soul. Aside from its inherent health benefits and great taste, drinking tea is also associated with feelings of warmth and comfort, which provides reassurance in difficult times – something we need now more than ever,” remarks du Toit.

Apart from anecdotal evidence, there’s also scientific proof that regular tea-drinking can reduce your risk of depression by 31%.

Eleven studies involving 22 817 people showed that tea consumption may act as an independent protective factor for depression and that the more you drink it, the less chance you have of becoming depressive.

The results from the poll were released this week in the lead up to International Day of Happiness (Saturday, 20 March) to help boost public morale during the pandemic.

According to the SA Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), depression and anxiety has worsened during the pandemic with call volumes to their helpline having more than doubled in the last year. The SARC’s poll reflects the same, with only 29% of respondents claiming to be truly happy.

Partner Content

20

Your Wellness Matters

Issue 17 - March 2021

Issue 17 - March 2021

Your Wellness Matters

21

WORLD BIRTH DEFECTS DAY Supplied Content

The 03 March 2021 was globally observed as World Birth Defects Day, an important time to raise questions around how to improve the health and quality of life of those affected by congenital conditions.

“This is especially so because there are still so many stigmas associated with having babies with birth defects like cleft lip palates or even down syndrome, which can cause lifelong emotional pain for families,” says Dr Iqbal Karbanee, CEO of Paed-IQ Babyline, a trusted telephonic medical advice service for the first 1000 days of a child’s life, starting from conception to birth and beyond.

Advertisement

He adds that stigmas are very prevalent in South Africa, and need to be overcome so that all babies, including those that live long lives despite a birth defect, have happy and fulfilled lives where they can

positively contribute to society. Every year, about 3-6% of infants worldwide are born with a serious birth defect; or an estimated 7.9 million children worldwide. This means that life-altering conditions like spina bifida and heart defects affect millions of babies and families. Interestingly, in every pregnancy, a woman starts out with a 3-5% chance of having a baby with a birth defect.

“It is important to recognise the factors that can put you at high risk to have a baby that may have a birth defect, especially a neural birth defect (NBD) like spina bifida,” says Dr Iqbal Karbanee, CEO of Paed-IQ Babyline, a trusted telephonic medical advice service for the first 1000 days of a child’s life, starting from conception to birth and beyond. “Risk factors may include your family history, if you previously had a baby with a NBD, or specific underlying, pre-existing medical conditions,” he says.

“The good news that if you are pregnant, there are certain steps you can take to help reduce your risk of having a baby with a birth defect.”

We suggest an interview with Dr Karbanee who can discuss the following: • What are some of the common birth defects in South Africa?

• How can pregnant women lower their risk of having babies with birth defects?

• What are the stigmas associated with babies who have birth defects? How can we overcome these as a society?

• What role does Paed-IQ BabyLine play in improving the health of moms-to-be and, as a result, reduce the number of complications at birth / birth defects?

• What type of help is out there for moms and moms-to-be if they are worried that their child either has or may have a birth defect?

Advertorial

22

Your Wellness Matters

Issue 17 - March 2021

Advertorial

Issue 17 - March 2021

Your Wellness Matters

23

Advertorial

24

Your Wellness Matters

Issue 17 - March 2021