Latest news with #AffinityHealth
The Star
a day ago
- Health
- The Star
Liver health under the microscope as World Hepatitis Day nears
As World Hepatitis Day nears, Affinity Health brings attention to the significance of liver health, offering dietary insights that can make a difference and urging South Africans to prioritise their liver care. As World Hepatitis Day approaches on July 28, the spotlight falls on the importance of liver health and the role of nutrition in preventing liver disease. Experts are urging South Africans to pay closer attention to what they eat, especially as poor dietary habits, excessive alcohol intake, and undiagnosed infections - such as hepatitis B and C - continue to threaten public health. Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health, emphasises that the liver, often overlooked in daily health discussions, performs over 500 vital functions and plays an essential role in maintaining overall health. ' The liver is one of the body's hardest working organs, but also one of the most overlooked when it comes to everyday care,' says Hewlett. He also cautions that poor dietary choices, excessive alcohol consumption, and undiagnosed infections, such as hepatitis B and C, can lead to long-term liver damage. The foods we choose to consume can have profound effects on liver health. While some foods promote the liver's ability to repair itself and function optimally, others can lead to inflammation and fat accumulation, potentially culminating in serious health issues. Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with antioxidants and assist the liver in flushing out toxins. Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with antioxidants and assist the liver in flushing out toxins. Fatty fish: Salmon, pilchards, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can reduce liver fat and inflammation. Salmon, pilchards, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can reduce liver fat and inflammation. Olive oil: A tablespoon a day can support healthy enzyme levels and diminish oxidative stress. A tablespoon a day can support healthy enzyme levels and diminish oxidative stress. Garlic: Contains selenium and sulphur compounds that stimulate detoxifying liver enzymes. Contains selenium and sulphur compounds that stimulate detoxifying liver enzymes. Avocados: High in fibre and healthy fats, they may help shield the liver against damage. High in fibre and healthy fats, they may help shield the liver against damage. Green tea: Loaded with catechins, it can enhance liver function when consumed in moderation. Loaded with catechins, it can enhance liver function when consumed in moderation. Beetroot: Supports bile flow and digestion while reducing oxidative stress in liver cells. Supports bile flow and digestion while reducing oxidative stress in liver cells. Processed meats and sugary snacks: Linked to an increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Linked to an increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Alcohol: Excessive consumption is a leading cause of cirrhosis and liver failure. Excessive consumption is a leading cause of cirrhosis and liver failure. Fried foods and takeaways: High in saturated fats that can overload the liver. High in saturated fats that can overload the liver. Sugary drinks: They are often rich in fructose, fostering insulin resistance and liver fat accumulation. They are often rich in fructose, fostering insulin resistance and liver fat accumulation. Salty packaged foods: Can cause fluid retention and undue strain on the liver over time. According to the World Health Organization, hepatitis B and C cause more than 1.1 million deaths globally each year, with chronic hepatitis B affecting an estimated 3.5 million South Africans—many unaware of their condition. Liver disease is often a silent threat, surfacing only at advanced stages when treatment options may be limited. However, there is a silver lining. Early screening, coupled with a commitment to a healthy lifestyle and better nutrition, can significantly reduce the risk of severe liver complications, including cancer and cirrhosis. The liver is an incredible organ boasting a remarkable ability to regenerate, but it requires diligent care. By making informed dietary choices, reducing alcohol intake, and scheduling regular medical check-ups, individuals can protect their liver health for life. Saturday Star
IOL News
a day ago
- Health
- IOL News
Liver health under the microscope as World Hepatitis Day nears
As World Hepatitis Day nears, Affinity Health brings attention to the significance of liver health, offering dietary insights that can make a difference and urging South Africans to prioritise their liver care. As World Hepatitis Day nears, Affinity Health brings attention to the significance of liver health, offering dietary insights that can make a difference and urging South Africans to prioritise their liver care. As World Hepatitis Day approaches on July 28, the spotlight falls on the importance of liver health and the role of nutrition in preventing liver disease. Experts are urging South Africans to pay closer attention to what they eat, especially as poor dietary habits, excessive alcohol intake, and undiagnosed infections - such as hepatitis B and C - continue to threaten public health. Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health, emphasises that the liver, often overlooked in daily health discussions, performs over 500 vital functions and plays an essential role in maintaining overall health. 'The liver is one of the body's hardest working organs, but also one of the most overlooked when it comes to everyday care,' says Hewlett. He also cautions that poor dietary choices, excessive alcohol consumption, and undiagnosed infections, such as hepatitis B and C, can lead to long-term liver damage. The foods we choose to consume can have profound effects on liver health. While some foods promote the liver's ability to repair itself and function optimally, others can lead to inflammation and fat accumulation, potentially culminating in serious health issues. Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with antioxidants and assist the liver in flushing out toxins. Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with antioxidants and assist the liver in flushing out toxins. Fatty fish: Salmon, pilchards, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can reduce liver fat and inflammation. Salmon, pilchards, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can reduce liver fat and inflammation. Olive oil: A tablespoon a day can support healthy enzyme levels and diminish oxidative stress. A tablespoon a day can support healthy enzyme levels and diminish oxidative stress. Garlic: Contains selenium and sulphur compounds that stimulate detoxifying liver enzymes. Contains selenium and sulphur compounds that stimulate detoxifying liver enzymes. Avocados: High in fibre and healthy fats, they may help shield the liver against damage. High in fibre and healthy fats, they may help shield the liver against damage. Green tea: Loaded with catechins, it can enhance liver function when consumed in moderation. Loaded with catechins, it can enhance liver function when consumed in moderation. Beetroot: Supports bile flow and digestion while reducing oxidative stress in liver cells. Supports bile flow and digestion while reducing oxidative stress in liver cells. Processed meats and sugary snacks: Linked to an increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Linked to an increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Alcohol: Excessive consumption is a leading cause of cirrhosis and liver failure. Excessive consumption is a leading cause of cirrhosis and liver failure. Fried foods and takeaways: High in saturated fats that can overload the liver. High in saturated fats that can overload the liver. Sugary drinks: They are often rich in fructose, fostering insulin resistance and liver fat accumulation. They are often rich in fructose, fostering insulin resistance and liver fat accumulation. Salty packaged foods: Can cause fluid retention and undue strain on the liver over time. According to the World Health Organization, hepatitis B and C cause more than 1.1 million deaths globally each year, with chronic hepatitis B affecting an estimated 3.5 million South Africans—many unaware of their condition. Liver disease is often a silent threat, surfacing only at advanced stages when treatment options may be limited. However, there is a silver lining. Early screening, coupled with a commitment to a healthy lifestyle and better nutrition, can significantly reduce the risk of severe liver complications, including cancer and cirrhosis. The liver is an incredible organ boasting a remarkable ability to regenerate, but it requires diligent care. By making informed dietary choices, reducing alcohol intake, and scheduling regular medical check-ups, individuals can protect their liver health for life. Saturday Star
IOL News
27-06-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Are youth vaping rates rising? Industry reacts to the tobacco control bill
According to Affinity Health, while vaping may contain fewer known toxins than cigarettes, it is not safe, especially for teens, pregnant women, and people with chronic conditions. Image: Supplied While a recent study by the University of Cape Town (UCT) has sounded the alarm about the alarming levels of vape usage among teens, the industry has sought to reassure that they are taking the matter seriously, but are also concerned how vaping is viewed in the Tobacco Products & Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill. The Health Department has previously said that, due to tobacco use remaining one of the leading causes of preventable death and disease worldwide, 'the government has proposed legislation on Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems as part of its efforts to enforce strong tobacco control policies in South Africa'. The department explained that the Bill aims not only to protect current and future generations from the harms of tobacco but also to promote health equity and sustainable development. 'Therefore, the department calls upon all sectors, including health professionals, educators, policymakers, and communities, to unite in support of effective tobacco control.' Recently, vaping has been in the spotlight, after a UCT study sounded the alarm on vaping rates among South African teens, urging the swift enactment of the Tobacco Products & Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill to curb what they warn could become a full-blown national epidemic. Affinity Health said that the difference is that cigarettes burn tobacco and release over 7,000 chemicals, including tar, carbon monoxide, and arsenic, many of which are toxic and carcinogenic. In contrast, vapes heat a liquid (called e-liquid or vape juice) that often contains nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerine, flavourings, and other chemicals. The study found that nearly 17% of surveyed learners currently use vapes: among them, 38.3% vape daily, over 50% of current users vape more than four days per week, and 88% of current vapers reported using products containing nicotine. The study surveyed 25,000 pupils across 52 fee-paying high schools nationwide to assess the prevalence, drivers, and addictive behaviours linked to vaping among teenagers. The researchers uncovered startling trends using a mixed-methods approach that combined quantitative and qualitative data. 'In South Africa, where tobacco control has made strides, the rapid rise in vaping among adolescents is a new public health challenge. As a multidisciplinary team, whose work intersects with public health matters, we wanted to quantify the burden. We were further driven by global alarm bells, like the World Health Organization's 2023 warning about e-cigarette promotion targeting the youth, as well as local gaps in knowledge,' said co-author Samantha Filby. Affinity Health added that both vaping and smoking carry serious health risks. 'While vaping may contain fewer known toxins than cigarettes, it is not safe, especially for teens, pregnant women, and people with chronic conditions. And with so many unknown long-term effects still being researched, prevention and education are key.' On Wednesday this week, the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Health heard a presentation from Asanda Gcoyi, CEO of the Vapour Products Association of South Africa (VPASA), where she delivered the industry's oral submission regarding the proposed Tobacco Control Bill. Gcoyi stated that their overall concern with the Bill is how smokers are not at the centre of the policy proposal, and that there is a lack of differentiation in how vaping is treated. By suggesting comparable measurements, she claimed that they were the same as tobacco, despite scientific evidence showing that they fall into two distinct risk categories. She also highlighted that harm is not equal, and that the 'harm is harm' mantra has no place in public health policy. 'It is quite clear that we are worlds apart in terms of agreeing on the science. We need to find a middle ground, and in finding a middle ground, Parliament ought to commission a credible independent science review to balance the available evidence for policymaking purposes.' Gcoyi said that VPASA itself is also concerned about youth access to vaping, and that had they not been, then they wouldn't have started initiatives as early as 2021. Gcoyi informed the committee that there is a lot of proxy buying occurring, and that she witnessed it herself, how adults are buying on behalf of a minor. 'We've spent a lot of time developing the guidelines, and you can take some of the guidelines. We need stronger controls and penalties for people who do not abide by the guidelines. 'We are willing to subject ourselves, as an industry, to a framework that is controlled, predictable, and that will ensure that we safeguard young people, but also ensure that the people who need these vaping products have access to them.' Gcoyi also wanted to dispel the notion that banning disposable vapes will eradicate youth vaping. 'It is without any basis in fact. Disposables are important for the South African market, particularly at this point… 'I think an important part I want to highlight is that flavours are not the root cause of youth vaping… Evidence supports a regulated flavour-inclusive vaping market.' Founder and Director of Quit Like Sweden (QLS), Suely Castro, an organisation which seeks to tout alternatives to traditional tobacco control and highlight methods that support adult smokers in transitioning to safer alternatives, has also weighed in. Castro said the UCT study findings highlight an important issue that requires urgent and nuanced regulatory attention, and that QLS fully acknowledges the legitimate concerns surrounding underage vaping. 'However, as Sweden's success shows, this does not mean rejecting harm reduction altogether. Instead, it's about creating smart policies that both restrict youth access and enable adult smokers to quit smoking and switch to safer alternatives. 'QLS supports progressive, evidence-based regulation that accomplishes two things simultaneously: protects youth and empowers adults. Sweden's model, based on what we refer to as the 'three As': Accessibility, Acceptability, and Affordability, ensures safer alternatives are available for adult smokers while maintaining tight control over youth access. 'Such an approach avoids the pitfalls of prohibition while addressing both public health and economic concerns.' Castro said that South Africa's Bill should be built on a foundation of risk-proportionate regulation, which looks at a differentiated regulation for products based on relative risk; support for adult smokers by ensuring safer alternatives remain acceptable, accessible, and affordable; and targeted youth protections such as guidelines on descriptors (avoiding overly childish language), enforcement of age restriction, and responsible advertising and marketing.
IOL News
13-06-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Men's Health Month: Recognise the warning signs to save your life
Your body often sends early signals when something's wrong. Ignoring those signs doesn't make you stronger—it risks your health and future. As we embrace Men's Health Month this June, the spotlight is on the importance of proactive health checks for men. Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health urges men to pay attention to their bodies, highlighting the critical early warning signs that too many often ignore. 'Too many men wait until they're in crisis to see a doctor,' Hewlett. 'By that point, the condition may advance or require more aggressive treatment. If we get men to act early, even if they think it's 'nothing', we could save countless lives.'
IOL News
19-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Prostate cancer awareness: lessons from Joe Biden's diagnosis every man should know
Doctors are examining a man in a hospital. Image: Unsplash Reports emerged on Friday revealing that former US President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive prostate cancer that has metastasised to his bones. This startling news, following a doctor's visit for urinary issues, has generated widespread concern both domestically and internationally, highlighting the critical importance of men's prostate health. Prostate cancer is a significant health concern among men worldwide; in South Africa, it stands as the most commonly diagnosed cancer. Statistics reveal that one in every 15 men is estimated to be diagnosed with prostate cancer over their lifetime - a stark reminder of the urgent need for awareness and early detection, particularly among higher-risk groups. Here's what you need to know about prostate cancer and its treatment options. Understanding prostate cancer The prostate, a small gland located below the bladder, plays a crucial role in the male reproductive system by producing seminal fluid that nourishes and protects sperm. While many men will experience non-cancerous prostate conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis, prostate cancer poses a more serious threat. In many cases, prostate cancer develops silently, often growing slowly in its early stages. However, if left unchecked, it can metastasise and become life-threatening. The complexities surrounding the disease highlight the importance of men adopting proactive health management, especially as they age. Prostate cancer in South Africa In South Africa, prostate cancer accounts for a substantial percentage of male cancer deaths, particularly affecting Black men who are at a higher risk. They are often diagnosed at a younger age and are more likely to experience aggressive forms of the disease. This demographic reality underscores the importance of targeted awareness campaigns and screening initiatives. Organisations such as the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa are actively working to combat the stigma and ignorance surrounding prostate health by offering education and resources to men across the nation. Recognising the risks As pointed out by Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health, "Prostate health is not something men should wait to think about when there's a problem." Several risk factors, including advancing age (particularly over 50), family history of the disease, and African ancestry, significantly elevate one's chances of developing prostate cancer. Important signs and screening Many men may neglect health check-ups due to the assumption that symptoms are absent, which can be a grave misjudgment. Prostate issues may not exhibit noticeable symptoms in their early stages, but when they do appear, they can include: Frequent urination, particularly at night. Difficulty initiating or stopping urination. Weak or interrupted urine flow. Pain or burning sensation during urination or ejaculation. Presence of blood in urine or semen. Chronic pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis. While these symptoms may indicate non-cancerous conditions, they should never be dismissed. Screening is vital, especially for those at heightened risk. It is recommended that men begin regular screenings at age 40, which typically include a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test and a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE). Tackling the myths Myths surrounding prostate health can perpetuate silence and inaction. Some common misconceptions include: Myth: Only older men need to worry about prostate health. Fact: Changes can begin in men's 40s, especially with a family history. Myth: Screening is painful or embarrassing. Fact: PSA tests are simple blood tests, and DREs are quick and routine. Myth: No symptoms mean no problem. Fact: Prostate cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Treatment and lifestyle recommendations Receiving an early diagnosis can significantly influence treatment outcomes. Treatment options for prostate cancer range from medication to shrink the prostate to radiation therapy or surgery for more advanced cases. Active surveillance is also becoming an increasingly common approach for slow-growing forms of prostate cancer. Moreover, adopting healthy lifestyle choices can play an essential role in mitigating risks. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, while limiting red meat and processed foods, can be beneficial. Staying physically active, managing weight and blood pressure, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption further contribute to optimal prostate health. The path forward As prostate cancer continues to represent a significant health threat, men must take action by prioritising their prostate health. Early detection and treatment improve survival rates significantly. The message from health advocates is clear: do not wait for symptoms to manifest before seeking a check-up. 'We encourage men to speak up about their health, take control early, and not wait for symptoms to become serious," concludes Hewlett. Booking that simple check-up could ultimately pave the way for a longer, healthier life. As we wait for further updates on President Biden's health, his diagnosis serves as a crucial reminder of the need for increased awareness around prostate cancer. Too many men avoid necessary screenings, often until it's too late. With greater knowledge and proactive approaches, prostate cancer can be effectively managed, ensuring men can lead vibrant, healthy lives.
