Category: Health

We kicked off December this past weekend with World HIV/AIDS Day. And you might be thinking, with all the medical progress that’s been made, why we are still calling attention to this in 2024? But despite progress in treatment and prevention, South Africa continues to have the highest HIV burden in the world and remains a significant public health issue. And because of this, there is still much work to be done to combat stigma, increase awareness and ensure fair and easy access to healthcare services for all.

While significant strides have been made in reducing new infections and improving treatment, HIV/AIDS continues to affect millions of people worldwide. According to UNAIDS, there are approximately 38-million people living with HIV globally and 1.5-million new infections occur each year. South Africa is home to approximately 7.5-million people living with HIV, which is nearly 20% of the global burden.

The key challenges faced in South Africa today, include: stigma and discrimination – many people living with HIV face societal judgement, which discourages testing and treatment; free access to preventative tools, like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and condoms; and treatment gaps – not all individuals diagnosed are receiving the health care they need to achieve viral suppression.

However, despite these challenges, there have been significant breakthroughs over recent years that deserve our attention and we’re here to also help share the knowledge and information.
– Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) has transformed HIV from a fatal illness into a manageable chronic condition. What does this mean? When taken consistently, ART reduces the viral load to undetectable levels, making it impossible to transmit the virus sexually.
– PrEP, mentioned above, is a daily medication that reduces the risk of HIV infection by over 90% when taken as prescribed. – Promising strides are being made in the development of an HIV vaccine. Researchers are also exploring new cure strategies, such as gene editing and immune therapies, though these remain in early stages.

By sharing this information and by keeping this important discussion top of mind, we are helping to create public awareness, which helps to reduce stigma and reduce the barrier to diagnosis and treatment. If you have any questions about HIV/AIDS, treatment options or preventative measures, speak to your medical doctor.

From a health calendar perspective, both June and November are months that shine a spotlight on men’s health. November, also known as ‘Movember’, is an annual event where men around the world grow their mos (moustaches) to raise awareness about men’s health issues, including: prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health challenges and suicide prevention. In support of this very important initiative, we are shining a spotlight on Prostate Cancer, because prevention is always the best option. Want to understand the symptoms and risk factors as well as why early detection is important? Read more below.

What is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the prostate – a small, walnut-shaped gland that produces seminal fluid and supports sperm mobility and controls urinary function and flow. It is also one of the most common cancers among men, especially those over the age of 50.
Symptoms typically include:

• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Weak or interrupted urine flow
• Difficulty starting or stopping urination
• Painful or burning sensations during urination or ejaculation
• Blood in urine or semen

Pain in the back, hips or pelvis

While these symptoms could be associated with an enlarged prostate and not cancer, it’s important to get a proper medical diagnosis.

What are the risk factors associated with prostate cancer?

Certain factors can increase a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer. These are:

• Age – risk increases significantly after 50.
• Family history – having a close relative with prostate cancer means that your own risk of developing the disease is high.
• Diet and lifestyle – a diet high in red meat and high-fat dairy combined with a low consumption of fruits and vegetables may contribute to increased risk for prostate cancer.

Previously, it was believed that African men were more at risk for prostate cancer or death caused by prostate cancer. However, research published on JAMA Oncology state that racial disparities in prostate cancer survival (PCSM) are largely driven by socioeconomic factors rather than race itself.

Early detection and prevention

Prostate cancer detected in its early stages has a higher chance of successful treatment.
Screening can be done by either (or both):

• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test – a blood test that measures the level of PSA in the blood.
• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) – where a medical doctor physically checks the prostate for abnormalities.

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, adopting a healthy lifestyle can lower your risk.

• Eat a balanced health diet of vegetables, fruit and wholegrains while limiting red meat and dairy intake.
• Physical activity and regular exercise helps to maintain a healthy weight and healthy body.
• Regular check-ups and health screenings can help catch any early signs of prostate changes before they become significant.

Men’s health often takes a back seat in modern society, but taking the time to schedule regular screenings and pay attention to your body’s signals can make all the difference. This November, remember that growing awareness – not just a moustache – can save lives.

If you have any health concerns, reach out to your medical doctor for more information.

To read more about the Movember movement, read our article here: https://medshieldmovement.co.za/movember-changing-the-face-of-me

Ever heard of AMR before? Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) has become a growing concern in our modern-day medical world, so much so that the World Health Organisation (WHO) created a World AMR Awareness Week 10 years ago, taking place this year from 18-24 November. But what is it exactly and why should we be concerned? We bring you the info below.

According to the WHO, AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of diseases spreading, severe illness and death. As a result of drug resistance, antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines become ineffective and infections become increasingly difficult or impossible to treat.

In South Africa, the impact of AMR is notable, due to the high prevalence of infectious diseases such as TB and HIV/AIDS. Drug-resistant strains of these diseases can lead to longer hospital stays, increased medical costs and higher mortality rates. But AMR is not just a local issue, it poses a significant threat to global health too. So, how can we help combat AMR?

1. Responsible use of antibiotics – follow prescriptions carefully and avoid using antibiotics for viral infections such as the flu or common cold or sharing antibiotics with others and make sure to complete the full course, even if you feel better – this is crucial to preventing resistant bacteria from surviving and multiplying.
2. Adopt good hygiene practices – regular handwashing, disinfecting surfaces and following appropriate food safety guidelines, all help reduce the spread of infections, minimising the need for antimicrobial treatment.
3. Get vaccinated – vaccinations can prevent illnesses and reduce the need for antibiotics and they offer the opportunity for resistance to develop.
4. Follow a healthy lifestyle – a balanced diet, regular exercise and good sleep contribute to a robust immune system that can fight off infections more effectively.
5. Education – promoting campaigns that stress the importance of responsible medication use can help curb the misuse of antimicrobials.

At MedshieldMovement.co.za, we are here to help keep you informed and provide content and support that helps you to live a healthier lifestyle. The medical article, Antimicrobial Resistance in the WHO African Region: A Systematic Literature Review 2016–2020 sheds more light on the causes and implications of AMR in Africa. If you have any health questions or concerns, speak to your medical doctor.

12 November is World Pneumonia Day – a day that draws our attention to this illness which still occurs widely throughout the world and can be deadly serious. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), pneumonia remains a leading cause of death among children under 5 years old. Our #MedshieldMom guide below will help you to distinguish between a flu or pneumonia and also what to do if you suspect your child may have pneumonia.

Even though we are heading towards the summer months in South Africa, children can be vulnerable to flu all year round. What starts as a seemingly mild flu can sometimes progress to more serious conditions like pneumonia, particularly in children with weakened immune systems or chronic health issues. Children most at risk for undiagnosed pneumonia are between the ages of 6 months and 5 years, contributing to 14% of all deaths in this age category, according to the WHO. Even children who are older than 5 years old may struggle to communicate what they are feeling and how ill they may be, so it’s important for parents to know what symptoms to look out for.

The difference between a flu and pneumonia

While some of the symptoms may overlap between the two illnesses, there are some key differences and signs for parents or caregivers to look out for:

Flu symptoms:

– Sudden fever
– Body aches
– Headache
– Fatigue
– Sore throat
– Runny or stuffy nose

Pneumonia symptoms:

– Persistent and high fever, over 38.5°C
– Fast, shallow breathing or difficulty breathing
– Chest pain
– Coughing
– Severe fatigue and weakness and inability to stay awake
– Blueish tint to lips and fingernails (indicating low oxygen levels)
– Vomiting

What to do if you suspect your child has pneumonia?

If you suspect that your child might have pneumonia, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may perform chest X-rays or blood tests to confirm the diagnosis and to assess how severe the condition has become. Early intervention can prevent complications.
Bacterial pneumonia is typically treated with antibiotics while viral pneumonia requires supportive care such as fluid and fever management.

To protect your child from developing respiratory illnesses, like pneumonia, it’s important to ensure they are appropriately vaccinated (ask your medical doctor about PVC: pneumococcal conjugate vaccine). Other prevention methods include practising good hygiene and teaching your children to wash their hands as well as feeding your child a healthy balanced diet which makes them less prone to respiratory infections, according to The Journal of Pediatric Health.

If in doubt, reach out to your medical doctor or visit your local clinic or hospital.

As we edge towards the end of the year, many people experience a sense of ‘end-of-year fatigue’, common in highly stressful work environments and industries. But what if you or a loved one or colleague is experiencing something one severe than that? Actual burnout?
Below we draw attention to the signs and symptoms of real burnout and outline what steps you can take towards healing if you’re the individual experiencing it as well as how you can support someone going through burnout. Read more below.

While end-of-year (EOY) fatigue can be equated to a general sensation of ‘tiredness after a busy year’, burnout is an entirely different issue with significant mental, physical and emotional consequences. Knowing the difference between the two is essential in taking the right steps towards healing, recovery and support.

 The difference between EOY fatigue and burnout:

Fatigue is a temporary feeling of tiredness or low energy, usually relieved by rest or a change in routine, like a long-weekend off or holiday, a new exercise routine or a few lifestyle changes.
In contrast, burnout is a state of chronic stress that goes unchecked and leads to emotional, mental and physical exhaustion. Burnout not only impacts work performance, but a person experiencing burnout will have impaired daily functioning and a breakdown in relationships, according to research published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology.

Symptoms of burnout:

• Chronic fatigue that does not improve with rest.
• Frequent headaches or muscle and body pains.
• Disruptive sleep, insomnia or excessive sleep. 
• Feeling detached or cynical towards work or other responsibilities.
• A decreased sense of self worth or self esteem.
• Feelings of helplessness.
• Increased irritability and frustration. 
• Reliance on unhealthy coping mechanisms, like alcohol, drugs, junk food, etc
• Socially isolating. 

 What to do if you’re experiencing burnout:

1. Acknowledge what you’re going through – denial can only worsen the situation. 
2. Reach out for help – talk to a trusted colleague or family member or psychologist. 
3. Set boundaries – setting boundaries can help you reclaim personal time and not take on any additional or new commitments. 
4. Prioritise self-care – include meditation, relaxing exercises like yoga and breathing exercises into your daily routine. 
5. Seek medical help – you may need medical intervention and your medical doctor may work with a psychologist or psychiatrist to help through this process. Sometimes patients are prescribed antidepressants, anti-anxiety or mood-stabilising medications as well as behavioural cognitive therapy. 

What to do if a loved one or colleague is experiencing burnout:

1. Be a supportive listener – be empathetic and allow the person struggling to know that their feelings are valid. 
2. Encourage professional support – while you can be an empathetic ear, it’s likely that the person struggling needs professional advice, support and even medical treatment. A professional can help them develop coping strategies and a plan towards recovery. 
3. Check-in regularly – these check-ins can truly help someone on their journey to recovery. 

If burnout is accompanied by depression, anxiety or thoughts of self-harm, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Early intervention with a medical professional can help prevent long-term mental health issues and provide a necessary treatment plan.

When it comes to exercising, having the right footwear is just as important as your workout routine. Whether you’re walking, running, or hitting the gym, the shoes you wear can significantly impact your performance, comfort, and injury prevention. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best shoes for your specific needs.

1. Walking Shoes: Comfort for Every Step

Walking shoes are designed to provide stability and cushioning, making them ideal for errands, casual strolls, and light exercise. When choosing walking shoes, look for a pair with moderate cushioning to absorb impact without being overly soft. Ensure the shoes fit well in width, offering comfort without squeezing your feet. A low heel-to-toe drop (4-8 mm) is preferable, promoting a natural stride.

2. Running Shoes: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Running is a high-impact activity that requires shoes tailored to your specific gait and foot shape. Running shoes come in various types, such as neutral, stability, and motion control. Consider your running style and foot strike when selecting cushioning. For long-distance runners, maximalist shoes with high cushioning offer extra shock absorption. On the other hand, minimalist shoes with lower cushioning may appeal to those seeking a more natural feel. Pay attention to the heel-to-toe drop, with higher drops (8-12 mm) suiting heel strikers and lower drops (0-6 mm) benefiting midfoot or forefoot strikers.

3. Cross-Training Shoes: Versatility for the Gym

Cross-training shoes are designed for various activities, including gym workouts, aerobics, and HIIT sessions. These shoes offer a balance of support, flexibility, and cushioning, making them versatile for different exercises. Opt for shoes with moderate cushioning to absorb shock without compromising stability. A wide base and snug fit in the midfoot are essential for lateral movements and strength training exercises.

4. Hiking Shoes: Ready for the Outdoors

If you’re planning to hit the trails, investing in a good pair of hiking shoes or boots is essential. Hiking footwear offers varying levels of support and protection, depending on the terrain. Look for shoes with enough width to accommodate your toes without slipping. Cushioning should be chosen based on the distance and terrain; long treks may require more cushioning for shock absorption. For rugged terrain, opt for hiking boots with ankle support and aggressive tread patterns for better grip.

5. Specialty Shoes: Tailored for Specific Activities

Certain activities, like weightlifting, dance, and yoga, require specialty shoes designed to enhance performance. Weightlifting shoes, for example, feature a stiff sole and elevated heel for stability during lifts. Dance shoes offer flexibility and light cushioning for precise movements. Yoga shoes are often minimalist, with grippy soles that provide traction on the mat.

Choosing the right shoes for your exercise routine is crucial for comfort and performance. Always try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen, and replace them regularly to ensure they continue to provide the support and cushioning you need. Whether you’re walking, running, or lifting weights, the right pair of shoes can make all the difference in your fitness journey.

Ever found yourself in a situation where your anxiety can feel overwhelming? This method is a great way to centre yourself and find a feeling of calm. Here we explain what the Tapping Method is, how it works and how to do it.

A study published in the Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease found that participants who practised Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) reported significant reductions in anxiety and distress. The tapping process is believed to calm the amygdala, the brain’s fear centre, allowing individuals to process their emotions more effectively.

So what is The Tapping Method?
It’s a therapeutic technique that combines cognitive therapy and exposure therapy with acupressure and works when a person taps on specific points on their body while focusing on specific thoughts or feelings.

Practising the Tapping Method
1. Start by identifying a specific cause of anxiety or concern, for example, this can be something like a fear of failing while giving a presentation to your manager or feelings of claustrophobia and lack of control while being on an aeroplane.

2. Create a self-affirming statement that can help you in times like this, for example, ‘Even though <insert cause of stress> makes me feel anxious, I completely accept myself.’

3. Begin the tapping process by using your fingertips to tap certain parts of your body while repeating the statement to yourself.
Start with:

• The temples
• The forehead
• The beginning of the eyebrows
• The side of your eyes
• Under your eyes
• Under your nose
• Chin / jawlines
• Collarbone
• Shoulders
• Arms, alternating

Continue to repeat the process until you start to feel calmer.

Many people are affected by stress and anxiety at some point in their lives. If this feeling becomes persistent, consult with your medical doctor about medical or therapeutic options available to you. Do a self check-in. Read this article explaining how to start here: https://medshieldmovement.co.za/5-great-self-check-ins-for-world-mental-health-day/
See that someone else may be in distress, read this article on how to help others in a crises: https://medshieldmovement.co.za/how-to-support-someone-in-crisis/

Breast Cancer Screenings: When To Start Going And What tests To Do

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and studies all show that preventative regular screenings for cancer can help save lives. But when should one start going for breast cancer screenings? Is this only applicable for women? And what are the options? Here we break down what you need to know and unpack some of the latest testing technology.

Studies consistently show that regular screenings can significantly improve survival rates by detecting cancer early, when treatment is most effective. The general recommendation for breast cancer screening varies depending on a person’s risk profile.

The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) advises women from the age of 40 to have an annual mammogram and those who have a history of breast cancer or genetic risk factors, to begin screening as early as 30 years old.

While breast cancer predominantly affects women, men can develop breast cancer too. In South Africa, breast cancer in men accounts for about 1% of all breast cancers, but because awareness is lower, it’s often diagnosed at a late stage. Men with a family history of cancer need to speak to their medical doctor about screening options.

So, it’s time to go for a screening, but what are the options? Today there are several options available that depend on the individual’s age, breast density and other risk factors.

 Types of Breast Cancer Screenings:

1. Mammogram
The most commonly used screening tool for breast cancer detection. This tool involves taking a low-dose X-ray that can detect tumours too small to be felt. Today, 3D mammography offers enhanced imaging, especially for women with dense tissue and reduces the likelihood of false positives.

2. Ultrasound
This is usually used as a supplementary test, particularly for women with dense breast tissue. Ultrasounds can differentiate between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts, to reduce the need for potentially unnecessary biopsies.

3. MRI
An MRI is typically only used for people who are at high-risk, with genetic mutations and a family history of breast cancer. It uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images, making it highly sensitive in detecting small tumours.

4. Genetic Tests
For those with a family history of breast cancer, genetic testing can identify mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Knowing your genetic status can help you make informed decisions about preventative measures going forward.

New technology, like contrast-enhanced mammography (which highlights abnormal blood flow) and using AI to analyse mammogram images to assist radiologists in identifying suspicious areas more quickly and accurately are proving to be effective and reducing workload for under-resourced countries.

Speak to your medical doctor about any concerns, your family history and when to begin screening. Prevention and early detection leads to better treatment and saves lives.

Many of us know a family member, friend or colleague who may be struggling with mental health. But what happens when this turns into a crisis? How can you best support your loved one when they’re experiencing a panic attack or suicidal thoughts. Here, we break down what ‘Mental Health First Aid’ is and how you can identify signs of a mental health crisis and provide the appropriate initial support.

The month of October has been declared Mental Health Awareness Month in South Africa, with the objective of not only educating the public about mental health but also reducing the stigma and discrimination that people with mental illness often experience. One key initiative is to promote ‘Mental Health First Aid’ (MHFA) – a concept similar to physical first aid, but designed for mental health crises.

Just as physical first aid teaches you how to stabilise a person until professional help is available, MHFA equips you with the tools to support someone going through a mental health crisis. This could involve anxiety attacks, suicidal ideation, severe depression or even psychosis.

 How to Identify A Mental Health Crisis:

Some common signs include:

1. Sudden mood changes – extreme shifts in mood, irritability or withdrawal.
2. Risk-taking behaviour – engaging in reckless actions without regard for personal safety.
3. Talk of self-harm or suicide – expressing feelings of hopelessness or a desire to harm oneself.
4. Disconnection from reality – experiencing hallucinations, delusions or an inability to recognise reality.

According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), suicide is the third leading cause of death among South African youth, highlighting the urgent need for timely intervention.

Providing Initial Support: The “ALGEE” Approach

Mental Health First Aid outlines a 5-step action plan known as ALGEE, which stands for:

1. Assess for risk of harm or suicide.
2. Listen non-judgmentally.
3. Give reassurance and information.
4. Encourage professional help.
5. Encourage self-help strategies and support.

This approach helps de-escalate the immediate crisis until professional help can be called upon.

3 Dos and 3 Don’ts

Do:

Stay calm, keep your voice low and steady and maintain open body language.

Encourage the individual to speak while you actively listen without interruption.

Ask open-ended questions like, “How can I support you right now?”

Don’t:

Minimise their feelings or use phrases like, “It’s all in your head.”

Make promises you can’t keep (e.g., keeping suicidal thoughts a secret).

Offer unsolicited advice or tell them what they should feel.

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If you suspect a family member or loved one is suffering, reach out to your medical doctor for sound advice. SADAG also has a suicide crisis helpline for emergencies.
Contact: 0800 567 567.
If someone is a danger to themselves or others, or if you feel unable to manage the situation, it’s important to seek help immediately.