Latest news with #NhlanhlaMofokeng
The Citizen
a day ago
- Health
- The Citizen
Community support can save lives in the fight against TB
Professional nurse Nhlanhla Mofokeng is raising awareness about tuberculosis (TB), a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Through community education, she aims to inform the public about how TB spreads, how it can be prevented, and why early diagnosis is crucial. 'TB mainly affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body. It spreads through the air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes, or even speaks. 'TB is not a death sentence, but when left untreated or poorly managed, it becomes life-threatening,' explained Mofokeng. Mofokeng mentioned that she currently works in a male medical ward and one of the most painful realities she faces is the high rate of treatment default among TB patients. She highlighted that many start their medication feeling hopeful, but due to various challenges like side effects, lack of support, poverty, or stigma, they stop taking their treatment before completion. 'I have seen patients return weeks or months later, far sicker than before. Some have drug-resistant TB, while others are too ill to recover. What breaks my heart most is knowing that these deaths are preventable. 'South Africa carries one of the highest burdens of TB in the world. According to the World Health Organization, over 200 000 new TB cases are reported annually here, and the majority of them are among the most economically active age group,' she cited. Mofokeng further noted a correlation between HIV and TB. She has treated countless patients who are co-infected with both, which complicates treatment and increases the risk of death. Early detection is critical. Do not ignore these warning signs: • A cough lasting longer than two weeks • Unexplained weight loss • Drenching night sweats • Fatigue • Fever or chills • Coughing up blood 'If you experience these symptoms or know someone who does, please go to your nearest clinic immediately. TB treatment in South Africa is completely free at public clinics. It involves a six-month course of treatment. However, for treatment to be successful, it must be taken every single day without fail. 'I have seen what happens when patients skip doses or stop early. The bacteria become resistant, and we are left with fewer and far more toxic treatment options. 'This is known as drug-resistant TB, and it is a growing threat in our country. The painful part is witnessing an increase in cases where, even after some patients have been re-initiated on treatment, they still default. 'This then makes them acquire multi-drug resistance. There is a huge challenge with tuberculosis in the hospitals, which are full of people who were unable to comply with treatment,' added Mofokeng. Some of the most common challenges patients face include: • Lack of food to take with medication • Fear of stigma or being judged • Side effects from the medication • Long clinic queues or transport issues • Poor understanding of the importance of completing treatment • Prevention and community action: Here is how the community can help prevent the spread of TB: • Encourage early screening and testing • Improve ventilation in homes and workplaces • Promote good cough etiquette and hygiene • Support those on treatment, emotionally and practically. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
6 days ago
- Health
- The Citizen
Nurse raises awareness about TB symptoms, treatment and prevention
Duduza – Professional nurse Nhlanhla Mofokeng is raising awareness about tuberculosis (TB), a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Through community education, she aims to inform the public about how TB spreads, how it can be prevented, and why early diagnosis is crucial. 'TB mainly affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body. It spreads through the air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes, or even speaks. 'TB is not a death sentence, but when left untreated or poorly managed, it becomes life-threatening,' explained Mofokeng. Mofokeng mentioned that she currently works in a male medical ward and one of the most painful realities she faces is the high rate of treatment default among TB patients. ALSO CHECK: Trauma Support SA urges public to help maintain essential trauma care services She highlighted that many start their medication feeling hopeful, but due to various challenges like side effects, lack of support, poverty, or stigma, they stop taking their treatment before completion. 'I have seen patients return weeks or months later, far sicker than before. Some have drug-resistant TB, while others are too ill to recover. 'What breaks my heart most is knowing that these deaths are preventable. South Africa carries one of the highest burdens of TB in the world. 'According to the World Health Organization, over 200,000 new TB cases are reported annually here, and the majority of them are among the most economically active age group,' she cited. Mofokeng further noted a correlation between HIV and TB. She has treated countless patients who are co-infected with both, which complicates treatment and increases the risk of death. Early detection is critical. ALSO CHECK: Unjani Clinic donates gardening tools to Wright Park community garden for elderly residents Do not ignore these warning signs: • A cough lasting longer than two weeks • Unexplained weight loss • Drenching night sweats • Fatigue • Fever or chills • Coughing up blood 'If you experience these symptoms or know someone who does, please go to your nearest clinic immediately. TB treatment in South Africa is completely free at public clinics. It involves a six-month course of treatment. However, for treatment to be successful, it must be taken every single day without fail. 'I have seen what happens when patients skip doses or stop early. The bacteria become resistant, and we are left with fewer and far more toxic treatment options. 'This is known as drug-resistant TB, and it is a growing threat in our country. The painful part is witnessing an increase in cases where, even after some patients have been re-initiated on treatment, they still default. 'This then makes them acquire multi-drug resistance. There is a huge challenge with tuberculosis in the hospitals, which are full of people who were unable to comply with treatment,' added Mofokeng. Some of the most common challenges patients face include: • Lack of food to take with medication • Fear of stigma or being judged • Side effects from the medication • Long clinic queues or transport issues • Poor understanding of the importance of completing treatment • Prevention and community action: Here is how the community can help prevent the spread of TB: • Encourage early screening and testing • Improve ventilation in homes and workplaces • Promote good cough etiquette and hygiene • Support those on treatment, emotionally and practically At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
23-06-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Teenage pregnancy in South Africa: A community crisis that needs us
Teenage pregnancy in South Africa: A community crisis that needs us Duduza – As South Africa marks Youth Month, a troubling reality casts a shadow over the celebrations: the rising rate of teenage pregnancy. While this month is meant to honour the hopes and potential of our young people, it also calls us to confront the challenges that threaten their future, none more urgent than the growing number of school-aged girls becoming pregnant. Professional nurse Nhlanhla Mofokeng said she sees firsthand the impact of teenage pregnancy on young girls, their families, and communities. 'In 2023 alone, over 90 000 schoolgirls across the country became pregnant, some as young as 10 years old. This is not just a statistic, it is a clear sign of a growing public health crisis. 'Teenage pregnancy puts young girls at risk physically, emotionally, and socially, while also placing pressure on families, schools, and our healthcare system. 'It is essential that we provide accurate information, compassionate care, and comprehensive support to help prevent early pregnancies and guide those affected toward healthier futures,' explained Mofokeng. Mofokeng speaks of the issue, highlighting not only the statistics but the heartbreaking realities behind them. 'Every day, we see young girls in clinics, some confused, others afraid, and many without support. Some have been violated. Others have been misinformed. This is not just a healthcare issue; it is a societal one,' said Mofokeng. She explained that teen pregnancy is not caused by a single factor but by a convergence of socioeconomic, educational, and cultural issues: • Poverty and inequality: Many young girls engage in transactional relationships to meet basic needs. • Early puberty and peer pressure: Children reach puberty earlier, often without the emotional maturity or information needed to navigate the changes. • Lack of sex education: Myths around contraceptives and abstinence-only messages leave many in the dark. • Family breakdowns and sexual abuse: Silence in the home, parental neglect, and even coercion often lead girls into unsafe situations. 'Many of our young patients do not know how to say no. They think pregnancy is the cost of love or affection,' Mofokeng said. She also noted that the consequences of teenage pregnancy are devastating: • Health risks: Girls under 19 face higher risks of complications like eclampsia, infections, and premature births. • School dropouts: One in three school dropouts is due to pregnancy, cutting off future career paths and self-reliance. • Emotional toll: Depression, anxiety, social stigma, and broken family ties are common. • Economic struggle: Many teen mothers rely on child grants and struggle to support themselves and their children. While the challenge is vast, solutions exist, and they require collective effort. Mofokeng outlines key preventative strategies: Comprehensive sexual education • Teach beyond biology to include topics like consent, relationships, and contraceptive options. • Schools, churches, and community halls must become safe spaces for learning and discussion. Access to youth-friendly contraceptive services • Clinics must offer approachable, respectful, and confidential services. • Services should include free contraceptives and flexible hours. 'We must debunk the myths. Contraceptives do not make girls infertile,' Mofokeng urges. Parental and community engagement • Equip parents to speak openly with their children about sex and relationships. • Involve community leaders and create multi-sector partnerships. • Host workshops for guardians and caregivers to empower home education. Support structures for teen mothers • Provide safe spaces for teen moms to share experiences and get parenting support. • Help young mothers return to school or enrol in vocational training. • Destigmatise teen pregnancy without glorifying it. Empower both girls and boys • Teach boys about respect, consent, and responsibility. • Promote positive male role models and community mentors. Keep girls in school • Schools must adopt supportive policies that encourage young mothers to continue their education. • Community efforts can fund uniforms, transport, and sanitary products. 'Education is still the best contraceptive,' Mofokeng said. Faith and culture as allies • Engage faith and traditional leaders to speak about delaying pregnancy from a values-based perspective. • Shift messaging from shame to hope and responsibility. Create safe youth spaces • Establish youth centres offering counselling, education, and creativity workshops. • Keep teens off the streets and engaged in positive, empowering activities. Mofokeng said teenage pregnancy is not just about girls making 'bad choices', saying it is about systems that fail them. 'It is about silence, stigma, and survival. But it is also about hope. Teen pregnancy does not have to define a girl's life. If we educate, support, and listen, we can turn things around. 'It is everyone's responsibility. It starts with conversation, and it ends with action. Let Youth Month 2025 be a turning point, a time not just for remembering the youth who fought for our freedom, but for protecting the youth still fighting for a future,' added Mofokeng. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
22-06-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Ignoring the warning signs: Men's health risks you shouldn't overlook
June is recognised as Men's Health Month, yet many South African men still avoid visiting healthcare facilities. Professional nurse Nhlanhla Mofokeng spoke to the Brakpan Herald about the reasons why so many men delay seeking medical attention or avoid regular health screenings. Mofokeng cited a combination of social, psychological, and systemic factors—including societal norms around masculinity, perceived inconvenience, denial and fear, unfamiliarity with the health system, lack of awareness, and broader cultural and socioeconomic challenges. 'Many men ignore or delay treatment for health issues until the condition has advanced,' she said. 'In my unit alone, we see numerous cases of young men who have attempted to take their own lives.' Changing this pattern, Mofokeng said, requires breaking through cultural, emotional, and systemic barriers. Strategies include changing the narrative around masculinity, involving loved ones in healthcare decisions, making clinics more accessible and less intimidating, using relatable male role models, and empowering male healthcare workers to lead by example. 'I believe recognising warning signs early is one of the best ways to prevent serious illness or death,' she said. 'Many men downplay symptoms, but certain red flags should never be ignored—regardless of age or lifestyle.' Mofokeng listed the following symptoms men should take seriously: • Chest pain or discomfort • Shortness of breath • Sudden confusion, difficulty speaking, or facial drooping • Unexplained weight loss • Constant fatigue • Changes in bowel or bladder habits • Erectile dysfunction • Lumps or swelling in the testicles • Persistent cough or hoarseness • Mood changes or withdrawal She also emphasised the severity of South Africa's TB crisis. 'Unexplained weight loss, coughing for more than two weeks, night sweats, and loss of appetite could be signs of TB. Clinics offer TB testing and treatment, but men often don't know these services exist,' she said. Mofokeng stressed that many men are unaware of the wide range of services available at public health facilities, contributing to low utilisation. 'Men can access general medical services, male-specific health checks, cancer screenings, mental health support, sexual and reproductive healthcare, diagnostic tests, preventative care, and emergency services,' she explained. She also highlighted several commonly overlooked or ignored health concerns among men: Commonly overlooked men's health issues: • Cardiovascular disease: Men often dismiss chest pain or shortness of breath. High blood pressure—known as the 'silent killer'—is frequently undiagnosed. • Mental health issues: Depression, anxiety, and stress are heavily stigmatised. Men may express emotional distress through anger, substance use, or withdrawal. Suicide rates are notably high among older and middle-aged men. • Diabetes: Symptoms such as fatigue, frequent urination, and slow-healing wounds are often attributed to aging. Type 2 diabetes can go undiagnosed for years without regular screening. • Obesity and poor nutrition: Many men overlook gradual weight gain and poor dietary habits. Obesity increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. • Prostate issues: Urinary problems like frequent urination or weak flow are often ignored. Conditions such as prostate cancer and BPH are common, yet screenings are neglected. • Testicular issues: Testicular cancer mainly affects younger men, but self-exams are rare. Many avoid discussing lumps or swelling due to embarrassment. • Erectile dysfunction: ED is often seen as a threat to masculinity, but it can be a warning sign of heart disease, diabetes, or hormonal issues. • Substance abuse: Men are more likely to engage in high-risk alcohol or drug use and less likely to seek help. These behaviours are often coping mechanisms. • Colon cancer: Fear or embarrassment about colonoscopies prevents many from getting screened. Yet colon cancer is highly treatable if caught early. • Injuries and risky behaviour: Younger men, in particular, are more prone to reckless behaviour and often ignore injuries that may lead to chronic health problems. 'Improving men's health starts with awareness and support. If we can create safe spaces for men to speak, get informed, and seek help without shame, we can save lives,' Mofokeng concluded. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
16-06-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Why Men Still Delay Seeking Medical Help
June is recognised as Men's Health Month, yet many South African men still avoid visiting healthcare facilities. Professional nurse Nhlanhla Mofokeng spoke to the Springs Advertiser about the reasons why so many men delay seeking medical attention or avoid regular health screenings. Mofokeng cited a combination of social, psychological, and systemic factors—including societal norms around masculinity, perceived inconvenience, denial and fear, unfamiliarity with the health system, lack of awareness, and broader cultural and socioeconomic challenges. 'Many men ignore or delay treatment for health issues until the condition has advanced,' she said. 'In my unit alone, we see numerous cases of young men who have attempted to take their own lives.' Changing this pattern, Mofokeng said, requires breaking through cultural, emotional, and systemic barriers. Strategies include changing the narrative around masculinity, involving loved ones in healthcare decisions, making clinics more accessible and less intimidating, using relatable male role models, and empowering male healthcare workers to lead by example. 'I believe recognising warning signs early is one of the best ways to prevent serious illness or death,' she said. 'Many men downplay symptoms, but certain red flags should never be ignored—regardless of age or lifestyle.' Mofokeng listed the following symptoms men should take seriously: • Chest pain or discomfort • Shortness of breath • Sudden confusion, difficulty speaking, or facial drooping • Unexplained weight loss • Constant fatigue • Changes in bowel or bladder habits • Erectile dysfunction • Lumps or swelling in the testicles • Persistent cough or hoarseness • Mood changes or withdrawal She also emphasised the severity of South Africa's TB crisis. 'Unexplained weight loss, coughing for more than two weeks, night sweats, and loss of appetite could be signs of TB. Clinics offer TB testing and treatment, but men often don't know these services exist,' she said. Mofokeng stressed that many men are unaware of the wide range of services available at public health facilities, contributing to low utilisation. 'Men can access general medical services, male-specific health checks, cancer screenings, mental health support, sexual and reproductive healthcare, diagnostic tests, preventative care, and emergency services,' she explained. She also highlighted several commonly overlooked or ignored health concerns among men: Commonly overlooked men's health issues: • Cardiovascular disease: Men often dismiss chest pain or shortness of breath. High blood pressure—known as the 'silent killer'—is frequently undiagnosed. • Mental health issues: Depression, anxiety, and stress are heavily stigmatised. Men may express emotional distress through anger, substance use, or withdrawal. Suicide rates are notably high among older and middle-aged men. • Diabetes: Symptoms such as fatigue, frequent urination, and slow-healing wounds are often attributed to aging. Type 2 diabetes can go undiagnosed for years without regular screening. • Obesity and poor nutrition: Many men overlook gradual weight gain and poor dietary habits. Obesity increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. • Prostate issues: Urinary problems like frequent urination or weak flow are often ignored. Conditions such as prostate cancer and BPH are common, yet screenings are neglected. • Testicular issues: Testicular cancer mainly affects younger men, but self-exams are rare. Many avoid discussing lumps or swelling due to embarrassment. • Erectile dysfunction: ED is often seen as a threat to masculinity, but it can be a warning sign of heart disease, diabetes, or hormonal issues. • Substance abuse: Men are more likely to engage in high-risk alcohol or drug use and less likely to seek help. These behaviours are often coping mechanisms. • Colon cancer: Fear or embarrassment about colonoscopies prevents many from getting screened. Yet colon cancer is highly treatable if caught early. • Injuries and risky behaviour: Younger men, in particular, are more prone to reckless behaviour and often ignore injuries that may lead to chronic health problems. 'Improving men's health starts with awareness and support,' Mofokeng concluded. 'If we can create safe spaces for men to speak, get informed, and seek help without shame, we can save lives.' At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
