February 2013: DNAlysis Biotechnology brings new and exciting technology to the South African market in an affordable and consumer-friendly manner. In-depth insights into your individual genetic makeup will offer you new possibilities for a healthier life. Armed with an analysis of your individual genetic variations, dieticians, healthcare professionals and fitness specialists can now create personalised programmes that go beyond the “one size fits all model”. The complete mapping of the human genetic information, first announced in 2003, revolutionised biomedical research and gave scientists a new understanding of the mechanisms of health and disease. This knowledge can effectively guide exercise programmes, diet strategies and the prevention, management... Continue Reading
Actively working to discpel the myths and misconceptions surrounding cancer, Liberty Medical Scheme (LMS) firmly subscribes to the 2013 World Cancer Day campaign of the International Union of Cancer Control (UICC). This year, the focus is on Target Five of its World Cancer Declaration: to improve general knowledge and dismiss any misconceptions surrounding the disease. The 11 World Cancer Declaration targets provide the strategic direction for the World Cancer Day campaign. In 2008, the UICC developed the World Cancer Declaration as a tool to help bring the growing cancer crisis to the attention of government leaders and health policymakers. The... Continue Reading
Eastern Cape-based haematology NGO, the Igazi Foundation, has announced the establishment of the first South African patient support and advocacy group for people suffering from Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML). Called ‘CML SA’, the group will offer up-to-date information, emotional support and advocacy on behalf of all CML patients in South Africa. CML is a cancer of the blood-forming organs that affects ‘myeloid’ or white blood cells. “Patients often feel isolated and anxious because CML is one of the lesser-known cancers and receives very little attention from the media and public, making it considerably harder to find reliable information and support,”... Continue Reading
Harare, January 28 2013: The United States and Zimbabwe are investing in/focusing on youth to continue the fight against HIV/AIDS stigma and discrimination and have provided resources to a youth-focused organization to expand its outreach. “Stigma and discrimination continue to prevent some people from accessing readily available HIV and AIDS support services. Especially among the large, important youth population, there are gaps in knowledge and great stigma to overcome,” said Bruce Wharton, United States ambassador to Zimbabwe, as he awarded a US$5000 grant to Africaid last Thursday on behalf of the President’s Emergency Fund for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Africaid was... Continue Reading
For several days MSF has been requesting access to Konna, a town in the pivotal area where the north and south of the country meet. This morning the first MSF medical team, comprised of two doctors and two nurses, made the journey from Mopti to Konna. The team is assessing the medical and humanitarian needs in the area and has already evaluated the main health centre in the town. “Their initial assessment describes a situation where the inhabitants have not had access to healthcare for several days,” says DarioBertetto, MSF head of mission in Mali. “Health facilities were empty of both medical staff and patients.” The team has started... Continue Reading
