Health Screening services intensifies

 1 September 2015

The Department of Health in collaboration with private sector partners will embark on an intensive campaign to promote Health Screening Services, specifically for Diabetes and Hypertension in all public health facilities during World Heart Month in September and World Diabetes month in November 2015.

The private sector partners like DisChem stores, Clicks and Pick and Pay as well as clinics, throughout the country will provide free health screening services during the same period.

According to the Department of Health statistics, one out of every four people have diabetes and are not aware of it, if undiagnosed or untreated, diabetes can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, blindness, kidney disease, stroke, amputation or even death.

High blood pressure (Hypertension) is a silent disease and the majority of cases in South Africa remain undiagnosed. High blood pressure which also is called hypertension and is one of the leading causes of heart disease and stroke. 

Healthcare professionals ensure that patients keep their blood pressure and blood glucose under control and at constant levels.

The following steps decrease these risks with early diagnosis and treatment:

Everyone over 40 years of age, especially if overweight or obese, should test regularly at a health facility for diabetes and hypertension.

Eat healthy foods like fresh vegetables and fruit. 

Be physically active - do exercise regularly.

Take your daily medication to control and manage your diabetes.

Lose weight and reduce your daily intake of salt, sugars and fats 

Statement issued by Popo Maja, Head of Communications, Ministry of Health, September 1 2015