News

The pandemic has occupied the minds of many, perhaps taking one’s eye off other common diseases which afflict  so many people. In most instances, apart from treatment and medication, a change of lifestyle can go a long way towards improving  one’s health and well-being. This is where New Year resolutions come to the fore, often [...]

According to CANSA (Cancer Association of South Africa), there are 5 myths that we need to dispel about the sun and skin cancer. The sun is only dangerous in summer or on a hot day. Sunscreen will protect you completely from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. One or two cases of sunburn will [...]

According to Diabetes South Africa, there is no such thing as 'mild' diabetes. The condition must be taken seriously. However, many people who have Type 2 diabetes are not even aware that they need treatment as the condition is undetected. What are the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes that you should know about? Excessive thirstiness [...]

While there is a special focus at this time of the year to raise awareness levels of breast cancer, CANSA encourages  women to make their health a priority all year round by being aware of the symptoms of cancer. The risk of COVID-19  infection may well discourage some from visiting their GP or gynaecologist for [...]

If the COVID-19 pandemic was not enough to be worried about, South Africans should be very concerned about cardiovascular disease (CVD). According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, after HIV/ AIDS, cardiovascular disease, (CVD) is the leading cause of death in South Africa. In fact, 215 people die of heart disease or strokes every day. [...]

From humble beginnings Liatile (Lia) Ntoa celebrates the 10th anniversary of People’s Choice Pharmacy, a Link pharmacy in Kokstad. Her natural drive and sense of community has seen Lia open two additional pharmacies, Crystal Pharmacy and East Griqualand Pharmacy. Lia, how did it all begin? I had been thinking about starting my own pharmacy for [...]

In the midst of COVID-19, National Women’s Month is a timely reminder to pay special attention to making health a priority. While one can take your own measures to take care of your health, healthcare facilities, medical practices and pharmacies remain open when needed. For those who would prefer not to risk infection by visiting [...]

The stress and anxiety associated with COVID-19 and the lockdown can add to psychological distress and for those already struggling with mental health disorders, it is now more important than ever to maintain treatment.  The South African Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP) has urged patients and healthcare providers to be alert to early signs of relapse, [...]

According to the Harvard Medical School, the average man pays less attention to his health than the average woman.  While men can be afflicted with conditions that can affect anyone – heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, depression, and stress – they are also faced with unique diseases such as prostate cancer and benign prostate enlargement.  [...]

Quitting smoking is a tough ask for many smokers.  But what about just taking it one day at a time? Decide to quit smoking for just one day on World Anti- Tobacco Day. See it as a kind of tobacco fast.  How you will feel better. According to the WHO (World Health Organisation), within 20 [...]