| By Willemien Jansen (Health Systems Trust Copy and Content Editor)
National Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Day is celebrated on 14 September in South Africa. The aim of this day is to create awareness and spread information about this often misunderstood disorder.
What is ADHD? ADHD is one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders mainly considered in children, but it can persist throughout adolescence and adulthood. Hyperactivity, or excessive activity, trouble focusing and paying attention, and trouble managing behaviour are some symptoms. A child with ADHD may find it challenging to do duties at home, get along with other kids or adults, or succeed in school as a result of these symptoms. People with ADHD may also struggle with working memory, attention span maintenance, and executive function—the brain's capacity to start an activity, organise itself, and complete tasks. There are three different presentations of ADHD, namely: It's important to note that a person can change presentations during the course of their life.
Common symptoms of ADHD According to Masiviwe, some common symptoms of ADHD are: Inattention: Having difficulty with details and making careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities. Finding it hard to stay focused on tasks, especially those that are less enjoyable or repetitive. Difficulty with organising. Frequently losing or misplacing things.
Hyperactivity:
Difficulty in keeping still or staying seated, even when it's expected (like in the classroom or at work). Excessive talking or interrupting others during conversations or activities.
Impulsivity:
Masiviwe also provides some strategies on how to manage symptoms.
A misunderstood condition ADHD is misunderstood for a number of reasons. People don't fully understand this disorder and children displaying them might be labelled as 'unruly' and 'naughty', when really they are struggling with a complicated brain disorder. ADHD can also manifest differently in different individuals. Some struggle more with symptoms of attention deficit while others struggle more with hyperactivity. There is a lot of stigma and misconceptions surrounding ADHD. People are often labelled as 'lazy' rather than recognising that they have a neurological condition. This keeps people from seeking the help they need and has a big impact on the sufferer's self-esteem. ADHD symptoms also overlap with other medical conditions like anxiety, depression and learning disabilities, which makes it harder to diagnose.
ADHD is not only a disorder in childhood For many years ADHD was seen as a childhood disorder. This meant that adolescents and adults who struggled with the disorder were not diagnosed and suffered in silence. According to an article by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) "this changed in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Adolescents and adults can now officially be diagnosed with ADHD. The diagnostic criteria in the DSM-5 mentions and gives examples of how the disorder presents in adolescents and adults (aged 17 and older)." Instead of going all the way back to the patient's early years (age 7), clinicians now consider the patient's middle childhood (age 12) and adolescence when diagnosing an adult with ADHD.
How do I get diagnosed with ADHD? In an article published by Mediclinic, Dr Rykie Liebenberg, a Mediclinic Sandton psychiatrist with a special interest in ADHD and anxiety disorders, explains that a diagnosis is clinical, which means it needs to be made by a specialist psychiatrist or another healthcare professional with expertise in the diagnosis of ADHD, "No computer tests, neuroimaging modalities, electroencephalogram tests (recording of brain activity) or psychometric tests will make the diagnosis. Instead you'll need to undergo a thorough medical evaluation, including a physical and psychiatric history, and a structured interview," says Dr Liebenberg. If possible, family members, partners or close friends will be interviewed about your childhood behaviour, family and developmental history, current behaviour and symptoms.
Where can I get support if I have ADHD? SADAG has a toll-free ADHD line aimed at assisting those affected by ADHD. The helpline number is 0800 55 44 33.
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| By Mandisa Dlamini, Health Systems Trust Communications Assistant, and Antoinette Stafford Cloete, Health Systems Trust Communications Manager  
Abodunrin and colleagues, wrote in 2023, that oral diseases place a substantial burden on public health. About 3.5 billion people globally suffer from various forms of oral diseases surpassing the figures for the top five non-communicable diseases by almost a billion cases. Oral diseases can affect your ability to speak, smile, taste and digest your food and often leads to the most incredible pain. The sad part is that oral diseases are, for the most part, preventable. Although not explicitly stated as a sustainable development goal (SDG), it does have multiple connections to many others and needs to be considered as a part of how the other SDGs reduce the global burden of disease. For this to happen a huge investment of funding needs to be made on public as well as private dental care. In South Africa, the public health system struggles with adequately resourcing its facilities with the necessary human resources to service communities in terms of health promotion and education (the preventive side) as well as tertiary interventions where teeth may need a higher level intervention such as extraction. The worst case scenario are cancers related to the oral cavities. Beyond simply having a beautiful smile, dental health is an essential part of general health and wellbeing. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for preventing gum disease, tooth decay, poor breath, and other dental issues. It also has a big impact on preventing more severe health issues like diabetes and heart disease, which are related to not getting adequate dental care.
The Importance of Oral Hygiene Maintaining good dental hygiene is essential to your general wellbeing and standard of living. You can prevent oral health problems, enhance general wellbeing, and improve your body's health by upholding healthy dental habits. Gum disease and cavities can be avoided with regular dental examinations, brushing, and flossing. Oral bacteria quickly pass into the bloodstream, and saliva can travel to the lungs in tiny droplets, carrying bacteria from the mouth. This shows they can bypass the epiglottis; the flap that usually prevents saliva from entering the lower respiratory tract. Neglecting dental care can result in infections that can cause more serious problems like heart disease, lung infections, and issues from diabetes.
Lack of Awareness A lack of awareness about the importance of oral hygiene continues to contribute to significant public health challenges. This problem impacts people's health, but because preventable oral problems are becoming more common, it also puts a strain on healthcare systems. Oral health is not prioritised in the same way as other health issues in many communities. This is particularly true in poor neighbourhoods where there is a lack of access to dental care and a financial barrier to treatment. Dental care is sometimes seen in these societies as a luxury as opposed to a need.
Essential Habits for Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene An antibacterial mouthwash that helps reduce bacteria and freshen your breath, daily flossing to clean in-between teeth and under the gum line where a toothbrush cannot reach, brushing your teeth at least twice a day with toothpaste to remove plaque and prevent cavities, and routine dental check-ups and cleanings at the dentist are all important components of maintaining good oral hygiene. To further preserve your teeth and gums, remain hydrated, stay away from sugary foods and beverages, and, if your dentist advises it, think about using a fluoride rinse or gel. Enhancing general health and quality of life is the goal of national oral health, not only keeping a gorgeous smile. We can encourage improved oral health for everyone by removing obstacles to care, increasing public knowledge of the value of good oral hygiene practices, and putting in place efficient public health regulations. To find out more about National Oral Health , visit the https://www.who.int/health-topics/oral-health#tab=tab_1
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| By Reu'el McAllister Singh (Communications Intern)
Each day, countless individuals battling with leukaemia encounter an important moment when their sole survival hinges on a bone marrow transplant. Whilst some patients are fortunate enough to find compatible matches within their families, many must turn to the broader community to locate a suitable donor. Given the wide range of potential tissue types, the possibility of identifying an exact match can be as rare as 1 in 100 000.
What is Leukaemia and Bone Marrow Transplant?
Leukaemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, characterised by the uncontrolled production of abnormal white blood cells. There are several types of leukaemia, including acute and chronic forms, which vary in their speed of progression and treatment approaches. Globally, leukaemia impacts approximately 300 000 individuals each year.
A bone marrow transplant is a medical procedure used to replace damaged or diseased bone marrow with healthy marrow from a donor. It involves infusing stem cells from a donor into the bloodstream of the patient to help regenerate healthy blood cells. This procedure is often used to treat conditions like myeloma, lymphoma, and other blood disorders.
Why You Need To Know About Bone Marrow Transplants When conventional treatments fail, bone marrow transplants are crucial for treating serious conditions like leukaemia, lymphoma, and other blood disorders. They offer a chance for recovery by replacing damaged or diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells. Understanding this procedure can be life-saving, as it may provide an option for those with otherwise limited treatment choices. When Is a Bone Marrow Transplant Necessary?
A bone marrow transplant is necessary when a person's bone marrow is seriously damaged. The procedure may also be used to replace diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells after high-dose treatments. It's a critical option when the disease has not responded to conventional therapies or when there is a need for a fresh source of healthy blood cells. Awareness about bone marrow transplants also highlights the importance of donor registries and the impact one donation can have on multiple lives. How can I Become a donor?
Becoming a donor is a simple process. Organisations such as DKMS Africa and the South African Bone Marrow Registry (SABMR) are dedicated to expanding their donor pools. It's as simple as registering to have your profile entered into the database. SABMR will screen and enlist health information of donors between the ages of 16 – 45. Creating your tissue type profile is done via a simple cheek swab. If your profile shows a potential match, you'll be contacted by a medical professional for further health checks and be advised on how to become a transplant donor.
Becoming a transplant donor is a sincere act of kindness that can offer someone a second chance at life. After the donation process is complete, your role as a donor ends, but the impact of your kindness remains significant. A simple registration can lead to life-saving results, highlighting the importance of each donor's contribution. Your heroic contributions through support and participation is the key to finding matches and saving lives. Create a Donor Profile today, visit: www.sabmr.co.za – 021 447 8638 www.dkms-africa.org – 021 701 0661
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| by Siyabonga Gema (Communications Officer)
One of the biggest challenges faced by the South African public health system is the issue of HIV prevalence among youth and adolescents. The ongoing unemployment crisis plaguing the youth makes them more vulnerable to HIV and other health challenges, including mental health. In response to this, Health Systems Trust (HST), in partnership with the Department of Health, provides psychosocial services to communities and deploys Peer Mentors who provide facility-based psychosocial support for paediatric and adolescent patients. Let's first unpack the role of Peer Mentors The key role of Peer Mentors is to provide adherence support to children living with HIV. They are responsible for patient education on HIV and antiretroviral therapy (ART): treatment literacy to children and caregivers; adherence counselling sessions; and basic psychosocial support to children on HIV medication. This support is intensified for children with an unsuppressed viral load, as Peer Mentors closely monitor the children's treatment journey. They identify social barriers that hinder viral load suppression and intervene through psychosocial assessment; refer patients to other partners/stakeholders within the facility and the community to ensure that they receive a comprehensive package of care; and offer enhanced adherence counselling. This holistic approach looks not only at the child but also at her or his family and community, as some factors that impede viral load suppression emanate from these structures. The Peer Mentors also support the implementation of support groups/adherence clubs and Family Care Days in the facilities. They ensure that paediatric and adolescent patients who come to the facility receive premium care through calling to remind them about their appointment dates; pre-pulling their files before they arrive; and fast-queueing them so that they don't wait in line longer than they have to. HST's Peer Mentor based in eThekwini District, Nosipho Ngcobo, joined HST in February this year. Nosipho recently sat down with us and shed some light on her work. Give us a brief description of what your job entails. As a Peer Mentor, my job at the facility entails playing the role of a 'friend', 'coach' and 'companion' to the youth in my community who are living with HIV and other comorbidities. Realising the gap among the youth in adhering to treatment brought about the need for a peer or a 'buddy' who will encourage and support our youth to sticking to treatment. So as their 'friend', my duty is to provide treatment literacy and adherence support to them in the facility. Over and above this, my role as a Peer Mentor is to deliver psychosocial support to promote positive health-seeking behaviours, and to provide education on sexual and reproductive health (SRH). My role also extends to carrying out HIV Testing Services (HTS), tracking and tracing paediatric and adolescent patients and linking them back to care. Facilitating the HIV disclosure process to the 0‒24-year age group as well as facilitating adherence support groups are some of the very important duties that I have as a Peer Mentor. All of these tasks are aligned with the 95% cascade which is designed to ensure that 95% of people living with HIV and on treatment are virally suppressed. What led you to taking up this profession? I believe that having a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work was one of the advantages that afforded me the opportunity to be part of Youth Employment Services. Growing up in a community faced with various health, political and psychosocial issues fostered my desire and passion to enrol in a Social Work degree. Growing up, I wanted to be a change agent for vulnerable children who were and still are neglected, and to help them reconstruct their lives and advocate for a positive and healthy life. This mindset has helped me to become part of this year's Peer Mentor team. What training did you have to undergo for this role? Special thanks goes to my employer, HST, for providing us as Peer Mentors with the necessary skills and knowledge through training and certifications that are necessary to fulfil the duties of a Peer Mentor. We were provided with the following training and certification: - Staying in Care for U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) Conversation Map Facilitators Training
- National RTCQI (Rapid Test Continuous Quality Improvement) course-quizzes and Assessment Certificate
- HIV Testing and Counselling Certificate
- Foundations of Working with Children, Disclosure, HTS and Adherence Certificate (the KidzAlive programme created by Zoë-Life).
- Kids Adherence Support Group Certificate (also part of the Zoë-Life KidzAlive programme).
How has this training assisted you in executing your tasks? These trainings have been of enormous help in executing the daily tasks of a Peer Mentor in the facility. Firstly, the 'Staying in Care U=U Conversation Map' training for Facilitators helped us to understand the kind of communities that we as Peer Mentors would be exposed to and to understand how our role as Peer Mentors is aligned with the third 95 of the cascade. This training has also given us in the necessary skills for spreading the word of 'Undetectable = Untransmissable' (U=U). Secondly, the HIV Testing and Counselling Certificate has verified that we are competent to carry out HIV testing and counselling services in our facilities. Lastly, the 'Foundations of Working with Children' Certificate has equipped us with the necessary skills and knowledge for working with children who are living with HIV, and also the Zoë-Life KidzAlive Adherence Support Group training showed us how to facilitate an Adherence Support Group. I am grateful for the training provided by HST. This will open doors to new possibilities. What more can be done to identify individuals or families in need of your services? I believe that engaging more with the community can help in identifying individuals or families in need of our services. Awareness programmes, dialogues and educational talks in the community can help to bring our community closer to the facility, and a needs assessment can be done there to identify whether a person needs psychosocial support services, adherence support services, or referral to other stakeholders where needed. What gives you motivation to render your services, even when you encounter challenges? I have an unwavering passion for helping children to overcome even unthinkable circumstances. I believe that even on a tough day filled with hiccups, putting a smile on a child's face and leaving a positive mark on their lives is what motivates me to render these services.
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| By Phumula Mudau (Communications Intern)
Climate change has emerged as one of today's most important challenges, affecting all aspects of life on Earth, including human health. People throughout the world are dealing with health issues that have been exacerbated by shifting climate conditions. Despite continued efforts to counteract climate change, the effects on health are becoming more apparent. Every year, climate-related health conditions claim lives and seriously disrupt the well-being of countless others. Recognising the substantial impact of climate change on health This subject emphasises the important need for immediate action to prevent climate change and the critical link between a healthy planet and healthy people. Direct Effects of Climate Change on Health As extreme weather events increase in frequency and severity, the direct health effects of climate change are increasingly noticeable. Heat-related diseases, injuries, and deaths are being caused by heatwaves, floods, and hurricanes. Because of rising pollution levels and wildfires, the quality of the air is declining, which is aggravating respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. To protect the public's health, prompt and efficient responses to these direct effects are essential. The indirect effects of climate change on health In addition to its direct effects, climate change has unintended consequences for health. The range of disease-carrying vectors, such as mosquitoes, is growing due to climate change, which is increasing the occurrence of diseases like malaria and dengue fever. Changes in weather patterns impact crop production, leading to food scarcity and malnourishment, so posing a danger to food security. Public health systems are further burdened by variations in water availability and quality, which raise the risk of waterborne illnesses. Health Effects of Social and Economic Factors The impact of climate change on society and the economy is significant when it comes to health. Disease outbreaks are more likely a result of crowded living circumstances, inadequate sanitation, and restricted access to treatment caused by migration and displacement brought on by climate change. A negative impact is also seen on mental health with anxiety, sadness, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) being exacerbated by the stress and trauma caused by climate catastrophes. Extreme weather can also harm healthcare facilities, which makes it difficult to provide basic medical care in an emergency.
Strategies for Mitigation and Adaptation Implementing comprehensive measures is necessary to mitigate the health implications of climate change. It is crucial to implement public health policies that lower greenhouse gas emissions and get ready for the effects of climate change. People can better adapt to changing climates by creating resilient communities through infrastructural upgrades and educational initiatives. To comprehend the effects of climate change on health and create effective solutions, ongoing research and monitoring are essential.
Encouraging Conscience and Initiative Campaigns to raise public awareness of the negative effects of climate change on health are essential for motivating people to take preventative action. Through the "Healthy Planet, Healthy Lives" campaign, which aims to promote awareness in communities most vulnerable to climate impacts, the Global Climate and Health Alliance is taking major initiatives to close the information gap. We may bring about significant change by advancing knowledge and cultivating an attitude of environmental responsibility.
In addition to saving lives now, addressing the health effects of climate change can ensure future generations have a healthier future. A single action can make a big difference in the health of the world, whether it's raising awareness, lowering carbon emissions, or supporting climate-friendly legislation. Promoting increased awareness and dedication to addressing climate change is essential. Together, by promoting dialogue, increasing knowledge, and acting decisively, we can safeguard both our health and the environment.
To find out more about the impact of climate change on global health, visit the Global Climate and Health Alliance.
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Donating organs is a life-saving medical treatment that has been around for a long time. People all over the world suffer from serious illnesses that are only curable with an organ transplant. The demand for organs continues to outpace the supply even with the substantial advancements in transplant operations brought about by technology. The unselfishness of donors and their families saves and transforms hundreds of lives annually. We can all help to give the gift of life by realising the huge difference that organ donation can make. This year's Organ Donor Month theme is "Be the Reason for Someone's Smile Today". This theme raises awareness of the critical need for more organ donors and emphasises the vital role that organ donation plays in saving lives. The Organ Donation Procedure The organ donation procedure is to identify possible donors, usually through hospital medical exams. A person's fitness for organ donation, including the state of their organs is evaluated once they have been identified as brain dead. Consent is required from the donor or their family, if applicable. To ensure that the organs stay healthy for transplantation, a medical team carefully removes them in a sterile environment. Transplant facilities receive the donated organs once they have been matched with patients according to medical standards. In the end, this process saves lives by increasing the likelihood of successful transplants by guaranteeing that the organs are as viable as possible. Obstacles in Organ Donation There is a serious shortage of organ donors with a major gap between the number of recipients and the supply of donors. There are many common misunderstandings regarding organ donation such as the idea that it is only appropriate for specific age groups or that it may cause problems with medical care. In reality, medical experts prioritise saving lives through treatment before considering organ donation and the donations are accepted regardless of age or health state. Encouraging Organ Donation Through addressing misconceptions about organ donation, educating the public, and inspiring people to take action, awareness programmes play a critical role in increasing the number of registered donors. The Organ Donor Foundation is taking the first step toward removing cultural barriers and increasing the rates of organ donor consent by introducing the ULUNTU Awareness Campaign in communities that are at risk. The high rate of organ failure and the possible need for a lifesaving transplant are not well known to the public in vulnerable communities because there are currently no official initiatives in place to educate people about organ transplantation. Giving an organ can be a lifeline for individuals in times of crisis as well as a symbol of hope and humanity. In addition to the beneficiary, a single donation has a major effect on families, communities, and beyond. Promoting greater awareness of and dedication to this life-saving procedure is essential. Together, we can save more lives and create a culture that is stronger and generous by promoting conversations, raising awareness, and registering as an organ donor. To find out more about organ donation, visit the Organ Donation Foundation
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| By Siyabonga Gema (HST Communications Officer)
Every year in August, South Africa celebrates Women's Month, which culminates with Women's Day being observed on 9 August. This day marks the events of 9 August 1956 when South African women across all racial groups challenged the then segregational Pass Law that was imposed by the Apartheid government. The courage and determination that the group of over 20 000 women demonstrated still resonates with women all over South Africa today. The dawn of democracy brought many changes in this country, opening doors to new possibilities and prospects, particularly for the previously oppressed. With these changes come new challenges, which again call on our collective efforts to overcome them. The South African health sector has continued to grapple with the scourge of the HIV epidemic. According to the Sixth South African National HIV Prevalence, Incidence, and Behaviour survey (SABSSM VI), HIV prevalence was nearly twice as high among women (20%) compared to men (12%) in 2022. Furthermore, the 2022 survey states that HIV prevalence was the highest among black Africans (20%), followed by Coloureds (5%), and lowest among Whites and Indian/Asian people (1% each). The continued efforts to curb HIV, propelled by the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, have given rise to many programmes aimed at empowering women and young girls, giving them a voice and helping them take charge of their lives and their health. Gender inequality is still a challenge for women and is a major hurdle in accessing services. The United Nations Women (UN Women) says that gender inequality contributes to the spread of HIV. It can increase infection rates, and reduce the ability of women and girls to cope with the epidemic. Often, they have less information about HIV and fewer resources to take preventive measures. UN Women addresses this by bringing gender equality and human rights perspectives to its work on women and HIV and AIDS through spearheading strategies that make clear links to factors propelling the epidemic, such as gender-based violence, denial of legal rights and women's limited participation in decision making. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), women and girls face unacceptably high levels of violence rooted in gender inequality and are at grave risk of harmful practices such as female genital mutilation, and child, early and forced marriage. WHO figures show that about 1 in 3 women worldwide have experienced either physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime. Harmful gender norms, such as toxic masculinity, which refers to a range of offensive, damaging attitudes, inclinations, and actions that have their roots in traditional male roles but are carried to an extreme are one of the biggest enablers of gender inequality, especially in traditional and cultural settings. These, and a myriad of other challenges, continue to be prevalent despite many interventions. Women's access to healthcare in the face of HIV and AIDS and other diseases calls on a concerted effort from all role players and sectors of society. In recognition of this need, the Health Systems Trust's Cervical Cancer Prevention, Access and Control (CCPAC) Project aims to address the challenge of high cervical cancer incidence and mortality, and focuses on education and awareness, improving access to early screening, diagnosis, treatment and palliative services for cervical cancer in the Zululand district in KwaZulu-Natal. For more information on what we do and the programmes that support women at the HIV interface do consult our website, www.hst.org.za
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| by Siyabonga Gema (HST Communications Officer)
Meet Nhlanhla Zuma, Health Systems Trust's (HST) Driver Mobiliser based in uMgungundlovu District, whose main focus and dedication is mobilising men to access health services, and supporting men in building safe and healthy communities across the district. Nhlanhla's work allows him to interact with men from different backgrounds and channel them to health services, while also educating them and equipping them with information on how to lead better lives for the benefit of their communities. We had a chance to engage with him and learn more about his passion for his work. What is your role at HST and what does it entail? My role at HST is to mobilise the community, especially men, and support them in accessing men-friendly health services. I was employed as a Driver in 2015, and in 2016 I was allocated to mobilise men to visit our facilities for men- friendly health services. When I started doing this job, I became more involved in community outreach work, and started visiting the Traditional Councils, Operation Sakuma Sakhe War Rooms, District and AIDS Councils, and community meetings. I engage with all the community leaders in order to mobilise men. I plan and organise 'men to men' programmes, including Isibaya Samadoda, the MINA Men's Health campaign, and Ikhosomba Lamajita, where we create a safe space for men and young boys to voice any issues related [to] their health and other social issues that affect them. Furthermore, I maintain a good working relationship between the organisation and community. I also encourage men to come for HIV testing, vital signs checks, TB screening, prostate cancer screening, and medical male circumcision. Why did you choose this line of work? I didn't choose this line, it chose me. When I started visiting our facilities to render testing services, I noticed that men chose to come to me for their HIV tests and expressed their preference to be serviced by a male professional. I was already passionate about creating a space where men could feel free enough to engage in health matters, so I initiated the idea of a Men's Corner, where men could receive their services. Since then, I have always been a champion for men-centred services and have been actively involved in programmes designed to empower men. Tell us about your role within the Men's Sector I was elected by the Men's Sector to be the District Secretary for uMgungundlovu District, and on 13 June 2024, I was elected to serve as a Resource Mobiliser of the Men's Sector for KwaZulu-Natal Province, representing uMgungundlovu District. This role puts me at the centre of spreading the word to all men of the district: that as men, our health and well-being is in our hands. I am involved in many programmes, including engaging with young boys on health and social ills. What gives you fulfilment about your role in the men's sector? By leading the men's sector structure in uMgungundlovu, we have achieved good relationships with Amakhosi, Izinduna and all other leading structures. Using our men-to-men platform, we encourage men to visit our clinics for health issues, and we are extremely happy to see a shift in perspective and a big difference. Please share your biggest career highlight I am so passionate about working with men. I have learnt a lot regarding men's health-related issues, and traditional and African cultures. I have also managed to mobilise men to visit our clinics in numbers, which has drastically improved the service rate at our health facilities, in collaboration with other non-governmental organisations that provide men's health services. How can you encourage men to be good examples to young boys? Young boys need to know that they are the fathers of tomorrow and they need to stay away from drugs and make sure that they look after their lives. Every father is responsible for raising a boy child, even if that child is not a biological relative but a young man in his community. We must teach what is expected from our young boys until they become men. The African culture believes that fathers must take responsibility for their young boys. If we teach our children and become good examples to them, we will overcome many issues, even the scourge of teenage pregnancy. What challenges do you encounter in channelling men towards accessing health services? In our discussions at iSibaya Samadoda, men request to be assisted by men at our facilities, but the challenge is that few men work as Professional Nurses and that's become a challenge to us as men. When men visit our facilities for men's health issues like sexually transmitted infections and other sexual problems, it becomes difficult for men to talk about their problems with female nurses. What can be done to overcome these challenges? Let's employ more male nurses, have separate spaces for men in all our facilities, and request mobile clinics for men only that will offer all the health services they need. For more information on Men's health and other support resources, please contact;
MenStar Coalition: https://www.menstarcoalition.org/ MINA for Health For Men: https://www.minaformenforhealth.co.za/ Coach Mpilo: https://www.coachmpilo.co.za/
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| by Mandisa Dlamini (Health Systems trust Communications Assistant) and Phumula Mudau (Health Systems Trust Communications Intern)
Infections caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) are among the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) around the globe. HPV, which comes in more than a dozen strains, can harm both women and men and cause everything from warts to cancer. Cancer often takes years, even decades to develop after a person contracts HPV. It is important to note that genital warts and cancers are caused by different types of HPV. It may be harder for persons with weakened immune systems including those living with HIV to fight off HPV. They might also be more likely to have HPV-related health issues. The HPV vaccine remains highly effective in preventing HPV infections and related cancers, including cervical cancer, showing promising results in reducing these risks. To further reduce the number of diseases linked to HPV, South Africa has been actively working to increase HPV vaccination rates. The government launched a nationwide HPV vaccination programme with the intention that girls are and remain protected against cervical cancer later in life. The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), in association with the International Papilloma Virus Society does public awareness campaigns , which features International HPV Awareness Day to educate about HPV-related cancer. Private school girls will also benefit from these interventions (single-dose vaccinations) as the school-based clinics serving public school girls. Greater Impact on HPV The human papillomavirus is known to cause cervical cancer in women, However, the HPV virus can also harm a man's health. It's critical that men know how to lower their risk of contracting HPV. Although genital cancers are rare, HPV infection can increase a man's risk of developing one. Similar to women, Men can also develop genital warts due to HPV. Other various causes includes penile cancer and oropharyngeal cancers. Men can catch HPV easily through having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus. The virus is transmitted through skin to skin contact with an infected area, even if it doesn't look infected. Vaccination and Prevention Over 90% of HPV-related cancers as well as premature abnormal cancer cells in the anal, vaginal, cervical, and vulvar regions can be avoided by immunisation against HPV. It is advised to have an HPV vaccination when younger (usually between the ages of 9 and 26) in order to prevent infection before sexual activity begins. Age can also affect a person's chance of developing HPV-related health problems because older people may have been exposed to the virus for longer or may have received fewer vaccinations. It is important to utilise both the HPV vaccine and maintain safe sexual practices, such as condom use. Using these preventive methods will improve general sexual health and safety by reducing the chance of HPV infection and its associated effects. Call to Action Protect Yourself and your loved ones with the HPV Vaccine. By getting vaccinated, you're not only protecting yourself but also contributing to a healthier future for everyone. Do not wait—take action today for a cancer-free tomorrow. To prevent HPV and other sexually transmitted diseases, consult your healthcare provider about the HPV vaccine and engage in safe sexual behaviour. For More Information and Resources, Visit www.gov.za or Contact Clicks The Health Systems Trust also runs a programme called Cervical Cancer Prevention, Access and Control (CCPAC). For more information go to the website: www.hst.org.za
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| by Willemien Jansen (Health Systems Trust Copy and Content Editor)
Like our physical health, taking care of our mental health is just as important. Unfortunately, this is often a neglected area in our lives, taking its toll on our work, home life and our physical health. July is designated as Mental Illness Awareness Month to create awareness of the effects of mental illness on our overall health and well-being.
Various mental health entities like the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), Masiviwe (@Masiviwe) and even the Department of Education are using this month to create awareness about certain mental health conditions that affect large portions of our population, but often go unnoticed. What are mental illnesses? According to the American Psychiatric Society (APA) "Mental illnesses are health conditions involving changes in emotion, thinking or behavior (or a combination of these). Mental illnesses can be associated with distress and/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities." The good news is that mental illnesses are just as treatable as physical illnesses and most people affected by mental illness go on to lead healthy, productive lives if they get the right support and treatment. Unfortunately, there is a lot of stigma surrounding mental illnesses and people are often worried that others will think that there is something wrong with them or that they are "crazy". They are therefore ashamed and don't want to talk about it, while they suffer in silence. What are some common mental illnesses? According to SADAG and Masiviwe, there are a range of mental illnesses that affect a large portion of the population. These include: - Anxiety
- Panic disorders
- Depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Substance use disorders
- Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
How do I get help if I think I am suffering from a mental illness? If you have the means, book a session with a doctor or clinical psychologist. They will be able to help you through talk therapy, medication, or refer you to a psychiatrist who can book you into a psychiatric clinic if they deem it necessary. This, however, will only happen in extreme cases where people can no longer function in their lives. You can also visit your nearest clinic where your mental health will be assessed. If you want to deal with your mental health issues privately, there are a number of websites and hotlines that can provide you with information and help with next steps. A list of these will be given below. There are also numerous support groups that you can join where you can meet people who struggle with the same problems as you do, which will help you relate to others and feel less alone. It is important not to isolate yourself when you are going through a mental health crisis. There is help out there and there are others like you struggling with the same issues. List of websites National Department of Health: Mental Health Masiviwe SADAG SA Federation for Mental Health List of helplines Mental Health Information Line: 0800 567 567 LifeLine National Counselling Line: 0861 322 322 Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0800 567 567 Cipla Mental Health Helpline:0800 456 789, SMS 31393 Healthcare Workers Care Network Helpline: 0800 21 21 21, SMS 43001 Dr Reddy's Mental Health Helpline: 0800 21 22 23 Adcock Ingram Depression & Anxiety Helpline: 0800 70 80 90 SADAG: 011 234 4837 List of Whatsapp helplines Cipla Mental Health: 076 882 2775 Maybelline BraveTogether: 087 163 2030
Ke Moja Substance Abuse: 087 163 2025 Have Hope Chat Line: 087 163 2050
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