Researchers: Jagidesa Moodley, Yogan Pillay, Olive P. Khaliq November 2025 What Is The Study About? South Africa, like many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), is now facing a double burden of disease, rising rates of non-communicable diseases alongside ongoing infectious disease challenges. Increasing numbers of women of reproductive age are entering pregnancy with obesity, diabetes, hypertension and HIV – conditions that significantly raise the risk of maternal and

Researchers: Discovery Health's Josie Grubb (Actuarial Analyst), Anesu Williams (Actuary), Dr Noluthando Nematswerani (Chief Clinical Officer), Amalia Theologides (Content Lead), Shirley Collie (Chief Health Research Actuary), Lara Wayburne (Chief Health Intelligence Actuary) April 2025 What Is The Study About? This study highlights the success of the infertility treatment funded by the Assisted Reproductive Therapy Benefit introduced by Discovery Health Medical Scheme (D

In South Africa, this type of doctor combines conventional Western treatments with holistic, evidence-based therapies. It focuses on identifying the root causes of chronic illness rather than just managing symptoms. Practitioners frequently utilise lifestyle modifications, nutritional therapy, and advanced functional testing to create personalised treatment plans. Did You Know? Functional and integrative medicine data in SA is categorised under the broader market segment of T

Key Breastfeeding Metrics Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF) Rates According to data released by the National Department of Health and the National Food and Nutrition Security Survey, SA’s exclusive breastfeeding rate for infants under 6 months old has experienced a troubling downward trend: • (2024–2026): 22% of infants under six months are exclusively breastfed. • This is a notable decline from the 32% reported in the 2016 South African Demographic and Health Survey (SADHS).

Plant-based diets have shown beneficial effects on cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and body weight because of high content of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and photochemicals. Additional Benefits Include Lowered Risks Of: - Heart disease - Type 2 diabetes - Cancers like colorectal & prostrate - Inflammation This is dependent on the diet’s quality and lack of highly processed foods. The importance of a “healthy” plant-based diet is better than unhealthy, processed vers

Absolutely! While Botox and fillers offer immediate and dramatic results, some women are looking for less invasive solutions, with fewer side effects. Natural skincare includes botanical extracts, essential oils, and other naturally- sourced ingredients. Additionally, there’s a growing awareness of the long-term benefits of maintaining skin health through hydration, nutrition, and natural remedies, which can complement or even replace cosmetic options. On a holistic level, th