Researchers: Mweete D.Nglazi and John E. Ataguba. November 2024 What Is The Study About? This study assesses the changing patterns in socioeconomic inequality in overweight and obesity among South African non-pregnant WCBA between 1998 and 2016. It uses data from the 1998 and 2016 Demographic and Health Surveys. Socioeconomic inequality in overweight and obesity was assessed using the concentration index. The index was decomposed to identify contributing factors to obesit

Researchers: P Barron, N Lince-Deroche, L Bamford, H Subedar, T Mbatha and Y Pillay. March 2026 What Is The Study About? In South Africa (SA), adolescent pregnancy, particularly in very young girls, is an issue of keen public and political concern given its social and health implications. This study provides a quantitative baseline that SA can use for targeting its efforts to address adolescent pregnancy and for measuring progress over time. Why Is This Important? Bar

Breast cancer screening is a proactive, life-saving measure designed to detect abnormal cell growth, tumors, or changes in breast tissue in apparently healthy women. Early detection is extremely effective. South Africa lacks a fully integrated, state-funded national mammography screening framework. This creates stark divides in adherence statistics between private health sectors and rural public sectors. Statistics - Localised metropolitan peer-research published by the Healt

Researchers: Solarin, Ijeoma, Fiona Scorgie, Rose Refilwe Lamola, Celeste Madondo, Isabelle L. Lange, Pascalia Munyewende, Shobna Sawry, Matthew Francis Chersich, and Gloria Maimela. January 2026 What Is The Study About? Rising global temperatures and heatwaves pose major health risks, particularly for pregnant women, infants and other vulnerable groups. Using Photovoice, we aimed to foreground how pregnant and postpartum women in an urban township in Tshwane, South Afric

Paediatricians are vital because they specialise in the unique physical, emotional, and social needs of developing bodies (children). In SA, there are 279 registered paediatrician locations as of April 2026, marking a 3.7% increase since 2023. Why Are Paediatricians Important Unlike general practitioners, paediatricians are trained specifically to manage children from birth through young adulthood (typically up to age 16 or 18). Their importance lies in several key areas: - T

Sexology in South Africa is an emerging, multidisciplinary field focusing on sexual health, education, and therapy, often addressing gaps in conventional medical care. Qualified practitioners - often with backgrounds in psychology or medicine, are trained to treat issues like sexual dysfunction, pain, and relationship challenges. Did You Know? Women with mental disorders show even higher rates of dysfunction, with a reported prevalence of 95.7% in some tertiary care settings.

C oncept Note By Kat Simon November 2025 A little bit of context… · Historically speaking, the cervical cancer burden has remained a challenge that has roots in traditionally inadequate systematic screening programmes, as well as compounded challenges with late diagnosis, and socio-economic inequalities. Previously, screenings were not easily accessible and there was even less awareness around the concept of regular and ongoing screening. Although the policy of South A

Why does nutrition matter? Food provides your body and mind with what they need to thrive, influencing your vitality, productivity, and quality of life at every stage. It also contributes towards: Disease Prevention Energy & Performance Stronger Immunity Mental Health Growth & Development Weight Management Recovery Statistics - 69%of South African women (aged 15+) are overweight or obese. - 20% of women are severely obese. - Obesity is particularly high among black African wo

Ecotherapy, aka nature therapy/ green therapy, is a therapeutic practice that involves spending time in nature to improve mental and emotional well-being. Benefits: 1. Reduced Stress - Nature helps lower cortisol levels. 2. Improved Mood. 3. Enhanced Focus- Can improve concentration and attention - the “restorative effect.” 4. Physical Health. 5. Encourages sustainable behaviours. 6. Social Interaction - Reduces feelings of isolation. Studies: 1. A study in Environmental Scie