3 Things you need to protect yourself from sun damage
Dermatologist at Mediclinic Milnerton, Dr Karen Ordemann, tells you what to put on your list of protective summer gear, as well as the role UPF plays in protecting you from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Ophthalmologist at Mediclinic Durbanville Dr Burnet Meyer explains the role of UV protection and polarisation when it comes to choosing sunglasses.
Why is there an increased risk of food poisoning in summer?
Summer means sunny days and braais and picnics outdoors. But warmer days also bring an increased health risk posed by perishable foods that aren’t stored correctly.
Are there female-specific risk factors for diabetes?
Diabetes is now the leading cause of female deaths in South Africa, according to figures from Statistics South Africa. With coronary heart disease established as the leading cause of death in people with diabetes, an endocrinologist at Mediclinic Worcester looks at the risk factors for diabetes that are exclusive to women.
Can your lifestyle lead to diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes can be treated when diagnosed early. If left untreated, warns Mediclinic Vergelegen endocrinologist Dr Elmo Pretorius, it can lead to kidney damage, heart disease and even stroke.
A snapshot of diabetes in SA
There are 1,826,100 people living with diabetes in South Africa, according to the latest International Diabetes Federation research. The cases of diabetes in the country are rapidly rising.
DID YOU KNOW?
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An orange has over 170 different phytonutrients and more than 60 flavonoids, providing anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour and blood clot-inhibiting effects.
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Most nursing units have windows overlooking gardens to promote healing.
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Our radio-translucent theatre beds enable X-rays to be taken on the spot, without having to move the patient or disturb the procedure.
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You get 20% of the water your body needs from eating fruit and vegetables.
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Nurses can observe patients at all times as critical care units are designed like a beehive with the nurses’ station in the middle.
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Mediclinic is one of the three leading private hospital groups in Southern Africa and the sixth largest private healthcare group in the world.
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We monitor the temperature of our neonatal units as newborn babies are extremely sensitive to temperature change.
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The only one in Africa and one of only 13 in the world, the P-I BrÅnemark Institute of Excellence at Mediclinic Morningside, specialises in facial reconstruction.
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Our hospitals did the first minimally invasive transcatheter aortic valve implant procedure in Africa.
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We use the internationally recognised Oxford Vermont Network to keep our neonatal critical care units at the forefront of paediatric medicine.
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Protect your brain with optimal glucose control
Four hundred South Africans suffer a stroke daily: this is a medical emergency where the blood flow to a section of the brain is interrupted or diminished. What’s important is prompt treatment, which can limit damage to tissue that’s suffered a lack of oxygen and nutrients. Dr Rudi Renison, a neurologist in private practice at Mediclinic Cape Gate, explains.
Prediabetes: Should you be screened for it? [infographic]
While prediabetes is not a health condition in itself, says Mediclinic Vergelegen endocrinologist Dr Elmo Pretorius, it can be a sign that you are on the way to developing type 2 diabetes.
DID YOU KNOW?
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A baby weighing 390g survived thanks to the expertise of Mediclinic’s highly qualified paediatric staff and specialists.
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Our hospitals did the first minimally invasive transcatheter aortic valve implant procedure in Africa.
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Our expert breastfeeding advice is based on the principles of the United Nations Children’s Fund and the World Health Organisation.
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We found a practical solution to a shortage of theatre nurses by becoming a registered teaching institution.
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To ensure sterility, our surgical instruments are twice wrapped in sterile fabric.
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Immunisations save lives and help stop diseases from spreading.
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We use a yacht-mast design for our cabling and keep it safely wound up in our trauma pedestals to avoid any accidents.
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We use the internationally recognised Oxford Vermont Network to keep our neonatal critical care units at the forefront of paediatric medicine.
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Our radio-translucent theatre beds enable X-rays to be taken on the spot, without having to move the patient or disturb the procedure.
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A baby has a 70% better chance of surviving a motor vehicle accident if in a secure car seat and properly restrained.
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Pregnant and diabetic? What you need to know..
Two situations can occur: a woman with pre-existing diabetes wants to have a baby or, diabetes presents itself during the pregnancy of an otherwise healthy mother (this is referred to as gestational diabetes). Dr Andre Diedericks, an Ob-Gyn at Mediclinic Bloemfontein, explains these two situations.
Take the time to #CheckWhatMatters this Diabetes Awareness Month
In South Africa, it is estimated that 3.85 million South Africans suffer from diabetes, with many remaining undiagnosed. The truth is we check our social media activity more than enough,
Is a mastectomy required or are there other options for breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a treatable disease and early diagnosis significantly improves the survival rate. Many women now have the option of preserving their breasts. Dr Mariza Tunmer, a specialist radiation oncologist at the Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre, explains non-surgical treatment options.
7 Everyday risks to your eyes – and how to avoid them
Imagine this: You’ve cleaned the patio, and you’re ready to spend a sunny afternoon in the garden. You open an ice-cold drink, Google some new recipes, then take a dip in the pool before lighting the braai and watching the kids play on the grass.
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