Health For Mzansi Podcast: Recent Episodes
Health For Mzansi
You know those secret medical shames you can’t share in public?
The Health For Mzansi podcast aims to demystify shameful health while unpacking your medical mystery with the right expert.
Your health is not shameful. Your health is not humiliating. Your health is not a disgrace. Proudly brought to you by Health For Mzansi
Despite living in an age of social media and instant communication, many people feel more lonely than ever.
To help unpack this growing issue of loneliness, clinical psychologist Siphokazi Makubalo sheds light on the emotional, mental, and even physical toll that loneliness can take.
She explains how loneliness is widespread in different age groups, how it affects well-being, and the steps you can take to rebuild meaningful connections in your lives.
Imagine stepping into a hospital or clinic, a place designed to heal, but instead, you find yourself surrounded by unseen germs and bacteria posing potential infections.
In this episode, infection prevention and control manager Tebogo Louw explains how infections spread in healthcare settings and notes the critical role of basic hand hygiene as essential for ensuring safety in these environments.
He also shares tips to help you navigate healthcare spaces safely to protect yourself and your loved ones while ensuring a positive healthcare experience.
Discover the inspiring journey of Dr Desiree Moodley, one of South Africa's leading women in gastroenterology. From overcoming personal challenges to pioneering advancements in digestive health, Dr Moodley's career is a testament to perseverance and innovation. Explore her story of resilience and dedication in shaping the future of healthcare.
Genome editing allows scientists to make precise changes to a plant's DNA, unlocking the potential for stronger, more nutritious, and more resilient crops.
In this episode, Chantel Arendse, the plant biotechnology lead at CropLife SA, unpacks how genome editing can be used to develop crops that are more nutritious and resilient, tackle diseases, and address global challenges like food security.
So whether you're curious about how genome editing could affect your dinner plate or what it could mean, this is one conversation you don't want to miss!
Heart disease remains a leading cause of death globally, yet many of its warning signs are often overlooked or misinterpreted.
Cardiologist Dr Andile Xana highlights the subtle symptoms that could signal heart problems in this episode.
Xana unpacks common and overlooked symptoms, how to recognise them, and why early detection is key to keeping your heart healthy and strong!
In this episode, we step into the world of acupuncture with Rebaone Monama, a leading practitioner at the African Centre for Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture. Tune in to gain insights into the benefits of acupuncture and how Monama’s work is shaping the future of health in Africa.
Every meal we eat affects our oral health in ways we might not realise.
In this episode, dentist Dr Boitumelo Fatola explains how what we eat can either boost or break down our oral health over time.
She advises on how to nourish our teeth and gums through smarter food choices and ways to care for overall oral health.
The more we age, the more the quest for maintaining our physical health and mental well-being becomes increasingly important.
In this episode, general practitioner and public health enthusiast Dr Thakhani Khorombi discusses the importance of maintaining healthy ageing. She shares insights on the importance of nutrition, exercise, and mental practices that can boost our quality of life and keep us thriving.
So whether you're approaching your golden years or just curious about what lies ahead, have a listen to uncover the keys to healthier, happier ageing.
Nuraan Samuels, an oral hygienist at Red Cross Children’s Hospital in Cape Town, is making a significant impact in the field of oral health. Her dedication to enhancing the oral hygiene of children, particularly those with special needs, underscores the critical role that oral health plays in overall well-being.
Numerous women, especially those in underprivileged communities, face major challenges when it comes to maternal healthcare. A lack of access to quality healthcare, coupled with socio-economic challenges, creates a perfect storm of danger.
Bonisile Mahlangu, a professional nurse and midwife, speaks about the challenges and obstacles faced by expectant mothers and what can be done to improve maternal healthcare.
In this episode, Natasha Zantsi shares how her life was marked by rejection from the very beginning and her struggle with forgiveness.
She was left in the care of her mother's relatives, where she was lovingly raised by a couple who couldn't conceive.
However, her journey took a dark turn when she was drugged, raped, and contracted HIV. The trauma sparked a decade-long battle with depression, fuelled by anger and a deep desire for revenge against her perpetrator. But in a profound moment of transformation, she shares how she discovered the power of forgiveness, which she now shares with the world through her book.
Discover the inspiring story of Dr Nonhlanhla Mbenenge, a leading pathologist and clinical virologist. Learn how she transformed personal tragedy into a lifelong mission to combat viral diseases like HIV, hepatitis B, and more, all while balancing a successful career with a fulfilling family life. Perfect for those passionate about virology, healthcare, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Fashion is often celebrated as a form of self-expression, but many women still find themselves judged and shamed for their clothing choices.
In this episode, psychosocial therapist Nkuli Tleane delves into the issue of victim blaming, where women are held responsible for the inappropriate actions of others based on their attire, which remains deeply ingrained in society.
She speaks about the impact of fashion policing on women's lives and the broader implications it can have.
Self-care is not just a famous word or a trend, but it truly holds the key to our well-being and happiness.
In this episode, clinical psychologist Dr Portia Monnapula-Mazabane from Durban explores the importance of self-care and explains that it goes beyond bubble baths and pampering sessions. She also discusses how it encompasses a holistic approach to nurturing our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
In this episode, discover the inspiring journey of Lydia Ntezo, a dedicated cardiac nurse at Life Vincent Pallotti Hospital in Cape Town.
From her humble beginnings in Mtati village in the Eastern Cape to her specialised training in cardiac surgery, Lydia’s story is a testament to perseverance and passion in healthcare. As a cardiac nurse, she plays a crucial role in complex cardiac procedures, providing exceptional care and support to her patients.
Overthinking can paralyse us with endless thoughts, affecting our decisions, relationships, and overall well-being.
If you’re constantly battling with racing thoughts, listen to this episode, as psychologist Noluthando Javu delves into the ever-relatable topic of overthinking. She unpacks what overthinking is, why it happens, how it can impact our lives, and how to overcome it.
In many kasi communities across Mzansi, access to quality healthcare remains a challenge, as these areas are often plagued by social and economic inequalities that have a profound impact on health.
Dr Velile Ngidi, a public health specialist, delves into how poverty, education, access to healthcare, and even the physical environment conspire to impact health outcomes in kasi communities. She details examples of struggle, resilience, and the urgent need for innovative solutions.
Join host Dawn Noemdoe to celebrate healthcare heroes making a profound impact in South Africa. In this episode, discover the moving story of Elizma Appollis, a dedicated nurse and midwife.
From her childhood dreams of becoming a paediatrician to her pivotal role on the frontlines of a global pandemic, Elizma’s journey is a powerful testament of resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to nursing.
Despite advances in HIV treatment and prevention, many people remain unaware of their status, leaving themselves and others vulnerable to the virus's silent spread.
In this episode, nurse Zanele Cekiso sheds light on why regular HIV testing is so important, not just for your own health but for the health of those around you. She also explores the benefits of early diagnosis and treatment.
As we celebrate Corporate Wellness Week, this episode shines a light on the vital role that corporate wellness plays in fostering a healthy, happy, and productive workplace.
Dr Chris van Straten, the global health advisor at International SOS, speaks about the importance of workplace wellness, exploring how it can boost productivity, improve employee satisfaction, and even impact a company's turnover.
In this Health For Mzansi podcast episode we share the remarkable journey of Dr Lihle Mgweba-Bewana, a neuropsychiatrist.
From her roots in Mdantsane township to her role in Pretoria, discover how she navigates the challenges of post-apartheid South African to champion mental healthcare.
Her story is a powerful testament to resilience, compassion and cultural sensitivity in healthcare.
Intimacy is essential for building strong and fulfilling relationships. Whether it's with partners, friends, or even family – the fear of intimacy can build walls around our hearts and keep us feeling isolated.
In this episode, life and relationship coach Kgaogelo Photoane unpacks how the fear of intimacy can manifest and impact us. Furthermore, she explores the signs of struggling with this fear and practical steps you can take to overcome it and build healthier and more fulfilling relationships.
Receiving a diagnosis for an illness can be a life-altering moment, one that can leave you feeling lost, scared, and uncertain about your health.
In this episode, Dr Faith Mahlangu shares how to navigate the difficulty of an illness diagnosis. From processing emotions to building a support network, she offers advice to help cope with an illness diagnosis.
Nurses are the backbone of Mzansi’s healthcare sector, and Mariska Martin exemplifies this in her 23-year nursing career of resilience and compassion.
In this episode of Health Heroes, we celebrate her dedication to clinical excellence and healthcare awareness in South Africa.
Her inspiring journey reminds us of the importance of self-care and the vital role nurses play in our healthcare system.
From putting off deadlines to delaying important decisions, procrastination can have serious consequences for our productivity, mental health, and overall well-being.
In this episode, educational psychologist Sinenhlanhla Khumalo explores the reasons why we procrastinate and the impact it has on our lives. She highlights strategies to overcome this ‘I’ll do it later” habit.
Are you standing at the door of your twenties, your heart pounding with a mix of excitement and uncertainty?
In this episode, teenage coach Asanda Mguga explores the importance of taking this decade of your twenties seriously by making the right choices, as it is a whirlwind of possibilities, independence, growth, and challenges.
So, whether you're about to embark on your twenties or already knee-deep in the journey, this episode is for you.
Snenhlanhla Msengu, an educational psychologist is transforming the lives of children with autism through her culturally sensitive therapeutic interventions.
She found her passion in psychology, focusing on the experiences of Black African parents with children who are autistic.
Her work emphasizes the importance of integrating cultural beliefs into treatment, ensuring effective and respectful care.
Indigenous foods are the original powerhouses of the culinary world. From drought-resistant grains to hidden health benefits, they offer a delicious and sustainable way to diversify our diets.
In this episode, Dr Ethel Phiri speaks about the importance of incorporating these forgotten gems into our diets, not just for our taste buds but also for our health, communities, connection to the land and keeping our traditions alive.
In this episode, Dr Lauren Raubenheimer provides insights into fetal MRI and what it can mean to expecting couples.
From detecting rare conditions to guiding critical surgeries, she explains how fetal MRI has become an indispensable tool in the fight for the health and well-being of unborn babies, by detecting abnormalities at an early stage.
In this episode we share the story or a remarkable individual contributing to public oral health. Dr Bulela Vava, public oral health registrar in the Department of Community Dentistry at the University of Witwatersrand, in Johannesburg. Despite childhood teasing over a misaligned tooth, his passion for oral healthcare and advocacy shines through. Tune in to discover how personal experiences can share careers and drive meaningful change.
The demanding nature of the healthcare field, coupled with long hours, high patient loads, and the weight of life-or-death decisions, has created a breeding ground for burnout among healthcare professionals.
In this episode, mental health occupational therapist Maphefo Masegare explores the signs and causes of burnout and the devastating impact it can have on our health heroes and, ultimately, on patient care. She also speaks about solutions, from practical self-care strategies to creating a more supportive healthcare environment.
In this episode, we explore how mental health and sexual wellness are not separate entities but are deeply intertwined and can have a profound impact on each other.
Keletso Mabunele, a relationship and sex educator, emphasises that by understanding how these two areas interact, individuals can seek appropriate support, engage in open and honest communication, and access resources that promote overall well-being.
Discover the inspiring story of Dr Molebogeng Kolojane, a trailblazer in clinical microbiology and disease control. Listen to her remarkable journey dedicated to combating infectious diseases, particularly tuberculosis and HIV, in her role as clinical microbiologist and infection prevention and control specialist.
The arrival of the long-acting injectable HIV prevention medication marks a turning point in the fight against HIV.
In this episode, epidemiologist Nqobile Ngoma sheds light on its efficacy, accessibility, and the importance of reducing HIV infections.
This groundbreaking advancement in HIV prevention injection extends beyond individual protection. By reducing the transmission of HIV, it effectively contributes to curbing the overall spread of the virus.
Discover how Sharon Shirinda is bridging the gap between social work and psychology to revolutionize mental healthcare in South Africa.
Join is as we share her inspiring journey the impactful work, she’s doing to enrich communities across South Africa through her social work and work as a psychologist.
Unemployment is a harsh reality for many professionals, and doctors are not exempt from this challenge.
In this episode, Dr Thabani Dlamini from Durban sheds light on the unique challenges they encounter as unemployed medical doctors and the potential solutions that can help pave their path towards professional fulfilment.
Additionally, he shares his disheartening experience and eagerness to contribute to the well-being of patients and communities.
Whether it's the desire to flaunt a toned physique at the beach or the aspiration to feel confident in summer attire, the promise of attaining a summer-ready body during the colder months has captivated the minds of many.
In this episode, we explore if summer bodies are really made in winter with personal trainer Lufuno Nyembe, to uncover the reality behind this popular saying.
In this Health For Mzansi podcast episode, we explore the remarkable journey of Dr Portia Mashaba, a trailblazing physician advocating for health equity and empowerment in Mpumalanga. We discover her inspiring story of overcoming obstacles, driving positive change, and championing a brighter future for all.
Change is constant, with some anticipated and other changes arriving unexpectedly. Regardless of its origin, change can be unsettling, triggering a rollercoaster of emotions.
In this conversation, Gauteng-based psychologist Siphesihle Mwelase speaks about the difficulty of change and effective coping mechanisms.
So whether you're facing a new job or an unexpected diagnosis, this conversation promises valuable advice to help you weather those storms of change.
Have you ever wondered what it's like to raise a child with hydrocephalus, a condition that causes a build-up of fluid in the cavities deep within the brain?
In this episode, we chat with Candy Chauke about her experiences, from the initial diagnosis to the realities of caring for a child with hydrocephalus.
Chauke shares the joys, the heartbreaks, and the incredible lessons she's learned along the way. We also hear about her daughter's uniqueness and how she thrives despite her condition.
In this Health For Mzansi podcast episode, we share Dr Charlene Kimar’s trailblazing career in biotechnology and physiological sciences. Her journey into the world of science was nurtured by a family of educators who instilled a passion for learning and exploration.
Join us and we uncover the transformative power of curiosity, perseverance, and lifelong learning.
Anxiety is often associated with worry, fear, and feeling overwhelmed, and can impact the choices we make.
In this episode, counselling psychologist Ashleigh Kater explores how worry may take over due to anxiety and force us to make decisions we would not have otherwise made. She also explains how it may, nevertheless, also offer certain advantages.
She discusses anxiety as a fairly normal reaction that can be managed effectively.
With the rise of expensive gym memberships and trendy fitness classes, many people are left feeling like achieving their fitness goals is out of reach.
This episode, however, highlights affordable ways to stay fit with fitness guru Neo Sibiya, who emphasises the importance of finding ways to stay fit within your means.
She champions the idea of achieving your fitness goals within your budget and affordability.
If you've been putting off getting fit because of perceived costs, this episode is for you!
In this Health For Mzansi podcast episode, we meet Dr Genine Josias. She’s a dedicated advocate for survivors of sexual violence with a career spanning over three decades.
Her story is a testament to resilience and compassion, and she shares the urgent need for change in our approach to tackle the critical issue of sexual violence.
Have you ever wondered if the key to better health could be sitting right on your plate?
In this podcast episode, we chat with dietitian Aziwe Booi who uncovers the meaning of food as medicine. She explores how the choices and what we eat can have a profound impact on our health.
Whether you’re looking to consider food as medicine, prevent illnesses through food, or simply make better food choices that can significantly impact your health, this episode is for you.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, but despite its high rate, many men are still unaware of its risks and the importance of screening.
In this episode, Dr Matthew Benedict emphasises the importance of regular prostate screenings for men for possible early detection.
As such, men are encouraged to go for regular screening, as it can play a vital role in better outcomes.
From Cape Flats struggles to groundbreaking covid solutions, discover how this visionary leader is redefining healthcare through cutting-edge health technology. Explore the intersection of resilience and health technology breakthroughs in this inspiring podcast episode featuring Ashely Uys, the CEO of Medical Diagnostic.
Are you curious about the booming trend of plant-based diets but unsure if it's the right choice for you?
In this episode, we chat with dietitian Masodi Makhafola from Limpopo, who delves into the possible health risks and benefits associated with this popular lifestyle choice.
As with any dietary approach, she advises that it is crucial to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian when adopting a plant-based diet. They can provide personalised advice, ensure nutritional adequacy, and address any specific concerns or health conditions.
Every relationship experiences bumps and challenges. However, sometimes, despite our best efforts, knowing when to walk away from a relationship, even if it's painful, can be a crucial step towards healing and finding happiness.
In this podcast episode, we delve into this important topic with relationship coach Tsholofelo Mngxali, who offers valuable insights and guidance on recognising the signs that indicate it may be time to let go.
As the episode unfolds, Mngxali also offers practical advice on how to navigate the journey of walking away from a relationship.
On the Health For Mzansi podcast, we explore Dr Makhotso Moabi’s journey in kidney health. Despite challenges, Dr Moabi, a specialist physician and certified nephrologist, found her calling, dedicating herself to educating the public about organ donation and increasing transplant rates. Tune in to discover the inspiring narrative of kidney health with a focus on strength, passion, and resilience.
We often associate intense emotions and drama with passion, mistaking a healthy relationship with boredom.
In this episode, we chat with relationship coach Linda Yende who explains why healthy love can feel boring.
This podcast episode explores how our brains are wired for drama and the rollercoaster ride of intense emotions. So, when we encounter the calm, steady, and secureness of healthy love, it can feel unexciting and boring.
If you’re confused between boring and healthy, this episode is for you!
Carrying the weight of past mistakes can be a heavy burden, and many may face challenges while trying to forgive themselves for those errors.
In this episode, we speak with clinical psychologist Maretebale Nape, who explains that forgiving yourself isn't about condoning your actions or erasing the past. Instead, it's about acknowledging your mistakes, learning from them, and letting go of the burden of guilt or shame.
This conversation is an invitation to explore the path of self-forgiveness. Nape highlights the importance of acknowledging the obstacles, learning from our mistakes, and moving forward with self-compassion and acceptance.
So, whether you're carrying a small regret or a heavy burden, this episode is for you.
Discover the fulfilling journey of Sherlinka Naidoo, a trailblazing psychologist, on this episode of the Health For Mzansi podcast. Uncover the resilience, challenges, and commitment to well-being that define her narrative. We delve into Sherlinka’s transformative experiences, emphasizing the power of failure and the fulfillment.
As we stand at the beginning of a fresh year, many of us are brimming with hopes and aspirations for a better year.
However, with unplanned and unpredictable obstacles along the way, your goals and hope for a better year can no longer feel achievable.
In this episode, clinical psychologist Rebaabetswe Mwelase underlines key things we should consider to set ourselves up for a truly amazing year.
Today we discover the impactful journey of Caroline Matsimela, trailblazing the empowerment of women through cycling. In our Health For Mzansi podcast we explore how Caroline breaks stereotypes and champions diversity in the cycling world.
A joyous time might influence our buying beahviour and cause overspending this festive season. Joining this week’s discussion is Matlou Setati, Executive Food Safety & Sustainability Initiative for the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa. Setati discusses consumer trends and why prioritising essentials is important.
Festive is synonymous with celebration and a time of gratitude. However, unfortunately, it is also a time when we see an increase in violence against women and children. Joining the discussion, we have Michael Benevolent Masina from the TEARS Foundation. We discuss systematic challenges that are not conducive to the victim, the distribution of sound information regarding gender-based violence, factors that cause an increase in violence during the festive time and referral to services that can assist.
Michael Benevolent Masinais a 23-year-old registered specialist wellness counsellor and senior intervention specialist, currently working with the TEARS Foundation. He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology & English Literature from the North-West University, as well as a BSc. Honours degree in Psychology from the University of Johannesburg.
Today we uncover Thabani Gumede’s inspiring journey in revolutionizing renal healthcare on the Health For Mzansi podcast. His specialized clinic in Johannesburg offers holistic care for kidney related ailments, reflecting his unwavering commitment to patient well-being and groundbreaking research in healthcare. Listen for insights in Thabani’s trailblazing quest in reshaping renal healthcare in South Africa.
In this episode, we will be focusing on the end-of-the-year stock take. Now we know that December marks a time of festivity and gratitude, however for most it is also a time of reflection, where we evaluate what we have achieved throughout the year. This evaluation can either leave one hopeful or disappointed at goals not being met.
We chat with the vibrant and energetic Lesego Legodi, a life coach and reading therapist, to give us insight on tools and methods to formulate goals, process failure and plan for the following year.
This week, we chat with Anele Mpela, better known as coach Anele, regarding the season of festivities that are upon us and how we can continue to be healthy and eat healthily. Coach Anele advises on practical tips on staying active, prioritising nutritious food, and rationing luxuries.
Today we explore the remarkable journey of Kelebogile Mojanaga, a dedicated clinical psychologist reshaping mental health policies in South Africa, on the Health For Mzansi podcast. We learn about her inspiring roots, experiences, and invaluable contributions to the sector. Tune in for an engaging stories and profound insights shaping the future of mental health in South Africa.
It’s Men’s Health Month, so we decided to focus the discussion on prostate cancer. This subtle but formidable adversary has quietly become one of the most common cancers among men in South Africa.
Shedding light on the topic, we chatted with Lorraine Govender, the national manager of the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA). With every 1 in 20 males affected by this disease, Govender unpacks the effects of prostate cancer, the importance of information distribution at the grassroots level and how to minimise the risk factors and regular screening.
Join us on the Health For Mzansi podcast as we unravel Darrel Adams’s inspiring journey from passion to purpose.
We share the story of his childhood fascination to becoming a dedicated ambulance practitioner. His unwavering commitment to saving lives, embodies, resilience and adaptability, facing daily challenges head-on. His story highlights the impact of family support, unwavering faith, and community gratitude, emphasizing the importance of dedication and self-care in the healthcare sector.
South Africa celebrates National Disability Rights Awareness Month annually between 3 November and 3 December. To join the awareness movement, we chat with Mbali Nana, who shares her experience of living with a physical impairment and how it has impacted all facets of her life.
For this week’s discussion, we delve into the topic of male infertility, which is normally viewed as a taboo topic, making it a difficult topic to engage with. To help us along and offer some insight, we chat with Darren Jones, whose focus of work is in assisted reproductive technologies.
Jones elaborates on what the stats communicate to us, the impact of infertility on men, methods to increase infertility and financial implications that might hinder access to medical services.
In this compelling Health Hero podcast, we explore the inspiring journey of Nurse Mpho Nkosi, a dedicated healthcare professional committed to nurturing health and hope. Discover the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her career. We also delve further into the transformative impact Nkosi has made in the lives of those she serves while they embark on their roads to recovery.
The mental health condition of males can sometimes be a topic that gets shoved under the carpet due to preconceived ideas of roles and beliefs. To unpack the nuances of the male role in society, we chat with Stellenbosch lecturer, and community mentor, Jerome Peter Fredericks.
In addition, Fredericks also discusses how a man defines himself, contributing factors to ill mental health as well as practical tools to process external impact and pressures.
This week we chat to Wellington Mokoena, a dietician who has been in private practice for 16 years and remains passionate about all things nutrition. In this discussion, we focus on identifying the symptoms of diabetic children, their nutritional needs, the importance of meal planning and practising good communication with your children regarding food.
Today we’ll share tale of unwavering determination, resilience, and the power of compassion that’s transformed not only the life of one remarkable woman but an entire community…
In the heart of a small farming town in Prince Alfred, Hamlet in the Western Cape, is where Sister Melissa Willemse grew up, surrounded by her cousins, where financial challenges were no stranger. But her grandparents, her pillars of strength, taught her the value of hard work, determination, and the importance of caring for others…
Melissa’s determination to break free from the cycle of poverty was undeniable. She aspired to achieve a respectable job that could change the lives of her family and her community...
Little did Melissa know that her journey into healthcare was about to begin in an unexpected way. As a forklift driver in a cold storage facility, her manager noticed her potential and insisted that she attend, first aid training. This is where her caring for other ignited a passion for nursing in her…
The 20th of October is declared Down Syndrome awareness Day in South Africa where we commemorate and raise awareness about the condition. Dr Nkateko Mnisi joins the discussion and highlights the impact of the condition, its prevalence, the misconceptions and what our social responsibility and response ought to be.
Statistics reveal that 1 in 500 children are born with Down Syndrome in South Africa, which makes up less than 1% of the population. Despite the low numbers, Dr Mnisi emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts to ensure an inclusive and safe community in which those living with Down Syndrome can thrive.
Dr Nkateko Mnisi works as registrar in pediatrics at the Mankweng and Polokwane hospital in Limpopo. She is also an advocate for the roles doctors play and quality health care as the first deputy president of the South African Medical Association Trade Union.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month in South Africa where nonprofit organisations and civil society rally around the promotion of getting regular checkups. This was exactly the case for 33-year-old breast cancer survivor, Nthabiseng Gwarube, who in 2018 spontaneously went for a checkup at her local pharmacy and soon learned the news that there were in fact multiple cancerous lumps in her breast.
Gwarube gives us insight into the emotional, physical, and financial challenges caused by breast cancer. But even more importantly, shares how she won the biggest fight of her life.
In this episode, Thifidzi Tshivase reflects on his experience of living with his friend who suffered from a drug addiction. Thshivase, a rental sales specialist based in Johannesburg, gives an honest account of the effects of the addiction on close family and friends, the rollercoaster of emotions experienced and what he learned going through this journey.
Jessica Lottering, a bright-eyed and creative young woman residing in Benoni, South Africa, shares her heartfelt story with us. She was born with a cardiovascular disease which included the transposition of her two great veins, a hole in her heart and a malfunctioning valve.
She reflects on her journey detailing 15 heart operations, how she overcame the shame of her condition and her support structure.
World Alzheimer’s Day takes place every September 21st. The day is marked as a global effort to raise awareness and challenge the stigma around Alzheimer's disease and dementia. In this week’s episode, we chat with Tersia Jeneke, a 70-year-old retired nurse who also has experience as a personal carer for her late aunt who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
Jeneke reflects on a 10-year journey of care and dealing with emotional loss.
This week we delve into a very important discussion of heart health and how it is central to the health of the rest of the body, especially the brain, says Prof Naidoo. In the discussion, Prof Naidoo explains good heart behaviour/practices, and symptoms to look out for and explains different heart conditions.
Professor Pamela Naidoo, CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa, leads a team in promoting good heart health and the prevention of heart-related conditions like strokes and heart attacks.
Jordan Hardnick, a 21-year-old architectural student and professional, shares his experience and lessons learned when it comes to matters of his heart. Since the tender age of five, Hardnick has undergone three open heart surgeries and a pacemaker change operation due to a condition called aortic stenosis.
In this episode, Hardnick also reflects on his health journey, his system of support, the financial impact of his condition and the hope he carries of living a fulfilled life despite the fears and challenges.
Life can be filled with thrilling and joyous moments; however, it is inevitable that on our journey, we will be faced with life-altering experiences such as loss, trauma, change or grief. These experiences have the power to affect us in a way sometimes beyond our control.
Angela Deh, a clinical psychologist, dealing with major mental illnesses and conditions, helps us to unpack this topic and the importance of healing through feelings.
In this episode, Deh gives insight into how events such as loss and trauma impact us physically, emotionally, and mentally.
In this week’s episode, we delve into mental health issues, mainly depression, and its prevalence among females. Research suggests that there are 280 million people worldwide that have depression, making it one of the most common conditions. Of that 280 million people, women are twice as likely to be prone to depression than men.
Dr Erica Munnik opens the discussion with contributing factors, systems of support and the importance of creating awareness.
Dr Erica Munnik is an associate professor of the Department of Psychology at The University of the Western Cape (UWC) and is registered as a clinical psychologist by the HPSA.
Hayley Barends, a passionate 31-year-old Afrikaans teacher and ‘piloxing’ (boxing, pilates and dance) instructor, recently added bodybuilder to her resume. Barends first started training and lifting weights in 2015, which helped her to tone and define her muscles, ultimately preparing her for the body-building journey she would later embark on. In this episode, Barends speaks candidly on occupying this male-dominated sport, overcoming body shamers and learning that everything starts with discipline – from physical fitness to mental well-being.
She took part in her very first bodybuilding competition at the IBFF Cape Classic on 29 July 2023. She won the Miss Bikini category and finished runner-up for Miss Wellness.
In this episode, we discuss females occupying the space of forensic investigation, which is generally known to be a male-dominated profession.
Shedding some light on this conversation, we chat to Khanyisa Ndletyana who is a specialist forensic investigator with 10 years’ experience in the field. Ndletyana elaborates on her introduction to the field, why and how women make a powerful contribution to the profession and the intensity of the job.
In episode 103, we delve into the world of traditional healing with Sangoma, spiritual coach and mentor, Zamambo Mkhize. More affectionately known by her spiritual name, Ndlovukazi, she graduated from initiation school in 2021, after completing her Bachelor of Social Science in Housing at the University of KwaZulu Natal.
In this insightful discussion, Mkhize elaborates on her journey as a Sangoma, explaining the difference between the Western and the traditional approach and how a lack of information has caused a general misconception of traditional healing.
The end goal of traditional practice will always be to bring healing, says Mkhize.
In episode 102, Dr Edward Ngwenya unpacks cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, tummy tuck and breast reduction. He elaborates on the procedural requirements and misconceptions of the cosmetic field. With some people willing to do whatever it takes to look better, he also discusses the possible dangers of cosmetic procedures when advised by unverified medical services.
Dr Edward Ngwenya, is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, senior lecturer at the University of Pretoria, and non-executive board director of the South African Medical Association. Having a double surgical speciality, Dr Ngwenya is thus skilled in diverse surgical procedures and knowledgeable asan authority in his field. His interests include but are not limited to, breast Surgery (cosmetic and reconstructive), body contouring (body shaping procedures), Onco-plastics (cancer surgery), and aesthetic Surgery.
Food, as we know it, is the fuel to our bodies. However, in addition to fueling our stomachs, food can also influence our mood and mental wellness. Physiological and phycological factors impact our eating behaviors and why we gravitate to certain foods when feeling stressed, depressed, or anxious. It is imperative to cultivate healthy eating behavior, as this does not only serve our body but our mind as well.
Joining the conversation, we have Somerset West-based clinical psychologist, Simone Arendse. She has practiced for 14 years, both locally and internationally, and shares some of her methods on how to break the vicious cycle of comfort eating when we don't feel good.
On this week’s Health for Mzansi podcast episode, Dr Chantell Witten unpacks child obesity in South Africa.
Dr Witten strongly advocates for the teaching of good nutrition education and literacy so that communities and parents will understand the importance of sound infant feeding practices (breastfeeding), the dangers of formula feeding and correct diet planning for the child.
The cost in childhood ultimately becomes the cost in adulthood, with about 68% of women being obese in South Africa, explains Dr Witten.
To crack the nut of obesity, Dr Witten suggests a holistic approach which includes:
-Nutrition education
-Increase in breastfeeding rates
-Practice good dietary habits (age-appropriate portion size meals)
-Doing away with adding additional calories (like mayonnaise, salad dressings and other
sauces)
-Drinking water
-Less screen time and more physical activity
Looking healthy is one thing, but feeling and being healthy begs us to look at what types of food we are consuming and how we think about our bodies.
Unfortunately, there are no quick fixes and shortcuts to a healthy body, explains Limpopo based dietician, Masodi Makhafola. In this week's episode of nutrition and weight-loss, Makhafola elaborates on the advantages of nutritious eating, causes of weight gain and why diets are a big no-no.
Having a healthy weight is not a one-size-fits -all approach, it includes many factors and a life-long commitment to the worthy cause.
All things concerning hair, especially your own, is a topic that is familiar to most. However, when it comes to the scientific study of one's hair and scalp, we delve into a more focused and medical conversation, known as trichology.
Elma Titus, a Cape Town-based trichologist, joins this episode and explains the importance of her profession, highlighting the root causes of hair loss and/or infections and challenges that have plagued her journey in obtaining her qualification.
Titus believes that through her profession, she not only fixes her patient's proverbial crown but sets them on a path of attaining glorious hair through a healthy scalp.
Often we take for granted the easy access we enjoy to the health sector and the safety we experience when entering health spaces.
This is sadly not the case for everyone. Therefore in this episode we will be talking about people that identify as part of the LGBTQI + community and their lived experience with access to the health sector. Dr Cobus who has a vast knowledge of the health sector and believes in the importance of equal and safe access for all human beings.
In this episode we discuss the challenges faced, the impact there of and a possible way forward to a more inclusive health sector for the LGBTQI+ community.
A Sons first hero and a daughters first love. Thats right this episode is all about the celebration of fathers in honour of Father's day coming up on the 18th June.When fathers are absent in communities and families, the void is evident and its impact can be felt. Fathers are thus such crucial role players in our society.
To shed more light on this topic and reflect on his own lived experience, we chat to Siyabonga Khanye who is a single father. He talks on different aspects such as the challenges of single parenting, his support system, but most of all the joys of being on this journey with his daughter.
For episode 95 we chat to SA’s youngest female medical doctor, Thakgalo Tibela all the way from Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga. Dr Tibela graduated from Wits University after matriculating at the tender age of 15 years old . She is a firm believer in hard work and it is evident through the podcast discussion.
Dr Tibela does not let her size or age compromise her service to the health sector, and confesses she is grateful that patients and colleagues have been welcoming in the medical space.
In this discussion, Dr Tibela shares more of her medical experience, motivates aspiring medical practitioners and shares how she is motivated to achieve a better health care for all South Africans.
For the month of June we will be exploring the different professions in the medical field.
For episode 94 we will be chatting to Nompumelelo Blakfesi, but for this chat sister Blafesi, who is a midwife currently working at Mowbray Maternity Hospital, with an 8 year experience. She obtained her first Nursing diploma at Cape Peninsula University Of Technology, then recently graduated at the same institution with a Primary Health Care diploma.
As the medical field is varied, so are the experiences. Sister Blakfesi does just so listen closely!
Ever heard of the term safety parenting? Don’t worry In this, because in this week’s discussion we cover all things regarding safety parenting with the help of Shanell Brandt, who is a full time Child protection social worker in the Northern Cape.
Shanell explains that these circumstances are extraordinary, but is much needed when a child or children is exposed to unsafe and abusive environments at their homes.
Safety parent candidates are thus screened to see if they are not only capable but also meet every requirement when it comes to the safeguarding of children.
In the chat Shanell further highlights how to get involved and the process to follow.
Today’s discussion is one of those hard topics, but yet a very real and sad reality that some females have experienced. As you know for the month of May we are focusing on all things motherhood, trying to unpack every corner and aspect of this varied theme and term that we all know and love.
It is a reality that some females are introduced to motherhood in ways that have been abusive or as a matter of urgency. Examples if this is being a victim of sexual violence or a sibling taking over a household and mothering her younger siblings due to unfortunate circumstances.
To shed some light on this matter and the trauma that some mothers go through, I will be talking to Ronel Koekemoer who has worked with survivors of sexual violence for over 6 years and has been involved in counselling, advocacy, and training. She is also the counselling coordinator at Rape Crisis Cape Town Trust.
For episode 91 we are shedding the light on mothers that are in the medical field. We know that being a mother requires so much , so imagine adding late night shifts and crazy working hours…..Not a good mix if you ask me. To give us more insight ,we have Dr Chanell Marthinussen who proudly wears the titles doctor, entrepreneur wife and mother.
We explore and discuss the challenges faced by the working medical mother, how the mother can be assisted and what to keep in mind when trying to juggle all of this at once.
Dr Marthinussen gives an honest and humuoristic take on her experience as new mother and medical preofessional and wants other mothers to know that you can do it all!
On this podcast episode we chat to Julie Mentor, leader of Embrace, a national movement for supported and empowered motherhood in South Africa. We unpack the complexity of motherhood and how civil society can partner with government and the public sector to create spaces that allows mothers to thrive.
Irrespective of how the term motherhood is perceived or experienced there is a common thread and responsibility of nurturing and caring for others beyond blood lines.
As mothers are the cornerstones of the villages that raise use and ensure our wellness, we ought to take up the responsibility ourselves and ensure the very same support and network is offered to them to.
It is National Immunization Week, from 24 to 30 April. In light of this we decided to open the
chat about all things immunization, which gives us an opportunity to discuss and explore the importance of immunization in protecting and saving lives. Contributing to the discussion is Pumla Ntlabati SBC/RCCE Consultant for UNICEF South Africa.
In the podcast discussion, Ntlabati cannot emphasize more the importance of immunization for both children and adults as not only a means to survive, but also to thrive.
Evidence proves that immunization is the best action needed to protect people from vaccine-preventable diseases. An example of this can be seen during the peak of Covid where a great percentage of the world’s population was immunized against the virus and many peoples lives were saved.
Education and sufficient distribution of resources are necessary to inform a community and so that informed decisions regarding one's health and wellness can be made.
In this discussion we elaborate on the topic of colourism, which is
the prejudice or discrimination against individuals with a dark skin tone,
typically among people of the same ethnic or racial group.Through this conversation we will be exploring aspects of identity,self-acceptance/love and social trends.
Joining the conversation we have Kgethang Morimoholo, a young and driven pageant model, high fashion model and speaker.He is an ambassador and top model for Mr and Miss Albinism 2021 and is also the co-founder of Sleek Mode Magazine. Khethang gives an honest reflection on his experience living with Albinism, while also commenting on the "light girl/boy privilege" which is prevalent in society today.
Today we continue discussion of beauty within, literally
looking and focusing on what we put in our bodies! In other words...what we
eat. Now I know a question you might have is how do we connect the simple act
of eating or food to cultivating beauty with in....to help us answer that
question we have the inspiring Dr Lebogang Masekela joining the chat with us
today!
Dr. Lebogang developed a passion for nutrition, fitness, and
weight loss from a young age.
This after struggling with binge eating and bulimia, Dr
Lebogang found her calling in teaching people how to eat healthily and founded
"Nutrition 101 by Dr Lebogang" which evolved into Dr Lebogang's
Nutrition & Wellness in 2019.
In this episode, Dr Lebogang explains the importance of conscious eating and not forgetting that H20.
In this edition, we give you the inside scoop of inner beauty. We are a society focused on what we see, and the proof is evident in the amount of money we spend on make-up, clothes, trendy hairstyles, and even cosmetic procedures. Now there is absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to look good and presentable, however we cannot neglect on what is going on internally. We are joined by Claudia Van Schalkwyk, a ground-breaking, revolutionary Holistic Transformational Coachanswering these questions that spring to mind.
Cansa ambassador and prostate cancer survivor David Pasipanodya (73) believes says that if you still think cancer is “a women’s” illness, you would be sorely mistaken.
Pasipanodya was first diagnosed with prostate cancer while living abroad in Sydney Australia in 2006. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in South African men. An estimated one in 23 men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime.
A cancer diagnosis is one of the greatest challenges in a person’s life. From the shock of diagnosis to the horrors of treatment and the uncertainty.
Our guests today are sleep specialists from the University of the Witwatersrand’s school of physiology, Drs Stella Lacovides and Karine Scheuermaier who are to answer some of our most frequently asked questions about sleep. If you have occasional sleep paralysis, you can take steps at home to control this disorder. Start by making sure you get enough sleep. Do what you can to relieve stress in your life -- especially just before bedtime.
Over 100 teenage mothers in South Africa gave birth on Christmas and New Year’s Day this year. This figure from the National Health Department has sounded the alarm for local healthcare authorities.
On this week’s episode of the Health For Mzansi podcast we chat to experts, Dr Mthembeni Tebelele, Steve Letsike and Lucy Khofi about the teen pregnancy pandemic in Mzansi.
Tebelele is a celebrity general practitioner, while Letsike and Khofi are health activists. The experts share their insights on whether poverty and a lack of sex education from an early age could be contributing factors to the country’s high teenage pregnancy rate.
On this episode of the Health For Mzansi podcast, a friend in crisis pleads with parents to ensure that their children are vaccinated against HPV. The Integrated School Health Programme with the joint efforts of the Departments of Health, Basic Education and Social Development has a Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccination Programme running in South Africa.
HPV is a very common virus. The virus lives on the skin and can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. This week, Dr Michelle Bryan, a gynaecologist at the Paarl Hospital shares her insights on HPV vaccinations.
Bryan says that HPV viruses No 16 and 18 are responsible for most HPV-related cancers. Some of the other high-risk HPV types is responsible for the remainder of cervical cancer cases.
Talking about your sexual needs can help bring you and your partner closer together and promote sexual fulfilment says sex positivity advocate Chérie Adendorff. She joins this episode of the Health For Mzansi podcast to help us understand desire, and why effective communication is best in bed.
The birds and the bees get it on, and men do it at any time. But for women to have sex, there needs to be scented candles and, of course, your lover needs to do the dishes first, right?
Wrong, says Adendorff. A woman’s sex drive and desire is just as normal as that of a man. No matter how “shameful” in some people’s eyes, a woman is allowed to explore her sexual desire without the judgement
Oral sex is great and all, but it can also spread disease. Gross, we know. But think about it oral sex puts you into contact with skin and fluids, any of which can contain disease carrying bacteria. And spitting out this kind of bacteria will not protect you from infection.
In part two of the Health For Mzansi podcast on intimacy, Gqeberha’s Dr Mthembeni chat shares his insights on safe oral sex and how mental health can impact sexy time.
We all want connection. We all want to be seen, to be truly known, to be treasured and feel valued. As women, (and men) we especially look for this in relationships and sometimes fall into the trap of trying to make a physical relationship into an intimate one.
Well, it takes intimacy to build a long-lasting relationship in the sack and beyond. This according to celebrity doctor, Dr Mthembeni Tebelele. He joins this episode of the Health For Mzansi podcast for a two-part series on intimacy in the month of love.
Tebelele is based in Gqeberha, and is a general practitioner with more that 20 years of experience in family medicine.
General practitioner, Dr Mthembeni Tebelele. Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi
Over-the-counter (OTC) medication can be purchased without a prescription. It is easy to buy and the abuse of OTC often goes unnoticed. On this episode of Sisters Without Shame, a concerned parent in crisis needs answers to battle her son’s addiction to lean or purple drank. Social worker, Denise De Beer shares her insights on combating addiction to over the counter medications.
De Beer is also the head of the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA) in George, Western Cape.
Failure is a part of life, and we must learn to accept it says educational psychologist Sandile Radebe. He joins this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame to share insights on the psychological impact of failure and how to deal and move on.
Failure is real, and it hurts, it also cuts deep and can separate those who go on to achieve success and those who give up and turn their back he says. Failure manifests like grief he believes.
On this week’s episode of the Sisters Without Shame podcast, a curious friend in crisis says that he is ready to test the vegan waters, but rather confused about where to start. So, we hooked up with communications for ProVeg International in Mzansi, Arleen Nel, to give clarity on plant-based lifestyles.
ProVeg International is a food awareness organisation with the mission to reduce the global consumption of animals by at least 50% by 2040.
Worried about the New Year? Mzansi, finding yourself tired of the endless “New Year, New You” messages? Well, Jozi clinical psychologist Danielle Broadley has some tips to help you feel more prepared and less anxious about this year. She shares her advice for dealing with New Year anxiety and more on this episode of Sisters Without Shame.
Through her private practice in Johannesburg, Broadley aims to empower her patients with greater insight into who they are and how they can grow as an individual.
There’s no doubt that we have had a tough couple of years. We’ve been lucky enough to live through a global pandemic after all. That doesn’t mean our survival has been without challenges though, says Broadley in this episode. Climate change, financial worries, all our fears have been exacerbated by Covid-19, leaving us in the grips of an anxiety pandemic.
On this episode of Sisters Without Shame, a friend in crisis says that she is living in constant pain and suspects that she might be suffering from uterine fibroids. Uterine fibroids are benign tumours that grow in and around the walls of the uterus.
Pretoria-based diagnostic and interventional radiologist Dr Andrew Lawson, shares his insights and advice for the management of uterine fibroids.
Lawson’s primary focus is on treating patients suffering from fibroids or myomas with uterine artery embolization.
The festive season is usually a time of joy and celebration, but for many it is the one time of the year where they can no longer run away from two “despicable guests”: stress and depression. On this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame, Paarl-based clinical psychologist Luc Scheepers shares some tips for coping with stress, anxiety and depression in the festive season.
According to Scheepers in the international classification of diseases, seasonal depression is classified as a sub type of major depressive disorder.
Drug and alcohol abuse take their toll on thousands of South Africans every day, but no matter how hopeless the situation seems, it is never too late to turn things around by seeking help. On this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame, Samantha Lehoko shares insights into her journey of sobriety after battling addiction.
Through the 12-step program Lehoko was able to turn her life around. In her journey towards making amends, she also landed a directorship position at the NPO, Rise Against Domestic Violence which was founded by survivor Zen Williams. Lehoko shares her journey of giving back through the organisation.
The same way you nurture and foster healthy, loving relationships with family, friends, and lovers, you need to do the same with the food you eat. A good relationship with food means giving yourself unconditional permission to eat the foods that make you feel good physically and mentally, says Gqeberha clinical dietitian Roslyn van Schoor.
Van Schoor joins registered dietitian and spokesperson for the Association of Dietetics in South Africa, Retha Harmse on this episode of Sisters Without Shame to unpack what it means to have a healthy relationship with food.
While antiretroviral treatment is not a cure for HIV, these pills can reduce the amount virus living in the body of a person living with HIV. On this week’s episode of Sister’s Without Shame, women’s health activist, Lucy Khofi unpacks the triggers behind defaulting HIV treatment in Mzansi.
According to Khofi, the burden of HIV is disproportionately higher among women of reproductive age. ARV drugs don’t cure HIV, but they can reduce the amount of virus in the body of someone living with HIV. This keeps the immune system strong enough to fight off disease.
Khofi is the founder of the Women’s Health Ekklēsia NPO, an organisation that tackles the reproductive realities and advocates for justice while uplifting, empowering, and educating individuals.
It is a miracle to make it out of an abusive relationship. Abuse whether physical, emotional, verbal, or sexual can have a long-term effect on your mental health. On this episode of Sisters Without Shame, psychologist Amina Mwaikambo unpacks the trauma of intimate partner violence.
Mwaikambo is a licensed Psychologist, and a Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Practitioner at the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation (CSVR). She is currently also pursuing her PhD in Psychology researching torture through the experiences of womxn ex-combatants in South Africa.
Mwaikambo has clinical experience providing psychotherapeutic interventions for various mental health issues related to mood, anxiety, trauma, and personality.
People with disabilities face many barriers in accessing good healthcare in Mzansi. On this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame Alan Downey the founder of Disability Info South Africa (DiSA) unpacks the most common barriers faced by communities of people living with disability and possible solutions for improvement.
Disability info South Africa (DiSA) was started in 2015 by Downey to provide a Free Disability Information Portal which not only gives easy access to information via their website, but also through their free contact centre, offering advice and guidance to those in need.
People with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have symptoms that many find relatable like difficulty sitting still or being easily distracted. At one point or another you may even find yourself saying something like “I am so ADHD!” to describe your own experience.
This just does more harm than go to those who are diagnosed and undiagnosed says Western Cape psychiatrist, Professor Renata Schoeman.
Schoeman joins this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame to unpack the ins and outs, and stigmas associated with ADHD. Schoeman explains that ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders and is usually diagnosed in childhood and continues up to adulthood.
Stroke is a major health problem that can have devastating consequences on your life. President of the Neurological Association of South Africa (NASA), Dr Patty Francis joins this episode of Sisters Without Shame to share her insights on causes and treatment of stroke. Francis has a special interest in stroke treatment and is part of an acute stroke service at Umhlanga Hospital. Her other special interests are headaches, multiple sclerosis (MS,) Parkinson’s disease, peripheral neuropathies, and dementia.
Ladies it is important to understand that you are not alone in your breast cancer journey. Cancer warrior Lorraine Govender joins this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame to share her insights on coming to terms with breast cancer diagnosis and treatment options you can explore in Mzansi’s public health sector. Never lose hope and continue to fight the good fight Govender says on this episode. Govender is the national manager for the cancer association of South Africa.
Being diagnosed with diabetes can be life altering says Sunward Medical Park’s, Dr Angela Murphy. Whether it is type 1 diabetes where the body does not make any insulin at all or type 2 when the pancreas makes some insulin but not enough, diagnosis means making changes to your lifestyle that you may not be ready to commit to. Murphy joins this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame to help us navigate the complicated condition that impacts a person’s quality of life. If blood glucose levels remain high, it can also be life-threatening. Managing blood sugar levels however can reduce the risk of complications. A Specialist Physician, Murphy practices exclusively in the field of endocrinology, with the https://sunwardparkmedical.co.za/index.php/departments/ (Diabetes Clinic) and https://sunwardparkmedical.co.za/index.php/departments/ (Obesity Clinic) being her two main areas of focus. She is also considered a Key Opinion Leader in diabetes and obesity and is extensively involved in education and training in these fields.
It can be potentially lifesaving to get used to the way your breasts normally look and feel. In Mzansi breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting 1 in 27 women of all races. On this episode of Sisters Without Shame, Dr Liana Roodt who is the founding surgeon of Project Flamingo shares her insights from risks to treatment and management and why you should take breast cancer screenings more seriously. Approximately 19.4 million women aged 15 years and older live at-risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer. A simple monthly breast self-exam to check your breasts for lumps or anything that seems unusual can save your life. Roodt says that it is important for you to know what is normal for your body as early detection improves the chances of successful treatment.
On this episode of Sisters Without Shame, a friend in crisis wonders if she will ever overcome the traumatic events in her life. Quraisha Baig, a clinical psychologist joins this episode to unpack trauma and finding healing. Trauma is to the human mind and spirit what a physical wound is to the flesh explains Baig. Generally speaking, trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event. This can be an event that threatens your life, or the life of someone near you, and results in feelings of significant fear or helplessness.
All women should be concerned about their vaginal health, but what constitutes a healthy vagina? On this episode of Sisters Without Shame, Centurion-based https://family-matters.co.za/dr-qinisile-diale-obgyn-and-fertility-specialist-centurion-pretoria/ (fertility specialist) Dr Qinisile Diale joins to unpack some of our most pressing vaginal woes. While a healthy vagina depends somewhat on a woman’s age, the vagina generally has an acidic pH, contains rich quantities of beneficial bacteria that help fend off infections, and is naturally lubricated. Sex is a natural thing that almost every adult engages in. And while it’s an important function for our society (after all it’s how babies are made), women don’t get the same attention when it comes to fixing their problems.
Mzansi there is no way around it: the death of a loved one is insurmountable, and funerals are difficult. A final gift can however save multiple lives and bring healing to other families. Through organ donation something positive can come out of the pain. Tanya Bothma has been on both spectrums in the emotional process: as a recipient and as the family member of a loved one who has gifted their organs and tissue. She joins this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame to share her journey.
There are currently about 4300 adults and children are awaiting solid organ and tissue transplants in Mzansi. This according to Samantha Nicholls who is the executive director of operations of the Organ Donor Foundation of South Africa. Nicholls joins this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame to answer all our burning questions about organ donation in Mzansi.
Organ Donation is a medical procedure where one person donates an organ, or tissue, to another person who needs a transplant.
On this episode of Sisters Without Shame, Polokwane Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist Dr Lorraine Masotja comes to the aid of a parent in crisis from Vryburg who needs more insights on the treatment of glue ear. Glue ear or otitis media happens when the middle ear becomes inflamed due to infection. It is most common in children and can follow a sore throat, respiratory infection or cold.
On this episode of Sisters Without Shame, a friend in crisis needs advice on how to deal with Premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) can be described as a health problem that is similar to premenstrual syndrome but is more serious. PMDD can cause severe irritability, depression, or anxiety in the week before your period starts. This according to medical activist and founder of Imfundo Enhle, Lucy Khofi. Khofi is also the founder of the Women’s Health Ekklēsia NPO an organisation that tackles the reproductive realities and advocates for justice - while uplifting, empowering, and educating individuals.
Stem cell transplants are medical procedures performed to replace bone marrow that have been damaged or destroyed by disease, infection, or chemotherapy. This according to Dr Candice Hendricks a paediatric haematologist who joins this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame to unpack the common misconceptions of stem cell donation in Mzansi.
Blood stem cell transplants are often the only hope to treat blood cancers and disorders in Mzansi. On this episode of Sisters Without Shame Thabo Maleka who lives with aplastic anaemia and Unathi Mtengwana, a blood cancer fighter detail their journey’s searching for blood stem donation. Maleka from Polokwane and Mtengwana from Zeereust have spent more time in hospitals than outside of them waiting for life saving stem cell matches.
According to DKMS Africa, up to 70 percent of blood cancer and blood disorder sufferers require a blood stem cell donation from a non-related donor. However, a general lack of information and education are major barriers preventing eligible potential donors from registering on the global registry.
On this episode of Sisters Without Shame a friend in crisis has lost all hope in the weight loss process and is interested in exploring weight loss surgery as a last resort. Registered dietitian Mariam Forgan shares what we need to know about weight loss surgery and bariatric procedures. Forgan works alongside endocrinologist https://www.drjocelynhellig.com/ (Dr Jocelyn Hellig) in the therapeutic management of chronic lifestyle diseases including diabetes, cholesterol, and hypertension among others.
On this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame lactation specialist Emma Numangolu unpacks the emotional and psychological benefits of breastfeeding. Parenthood is filled with a rollercoaster of emotions. From hormonal changes to sleep deprivation to feeding choices for your baby, your life and emotions may seem to be all over the place all the time.
Not only is breast best for baby’s health but it could do wonders for your mental health too says Numangolu. She is a mom first and a registered nurse and midwife with specialised interests in lactation.
On this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame a friend in crisis wonders why she feels down in the slumps after eating certain foods. We all have those days where we feel so miserable that we cannot even force ourselves out of bed to face the world with a little bit of enthusiasm and energy. Western Cape dietitian, Jo-Anne Roets unpacks the links between food and our mental health.
In a landmark decision on June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade a nearly 50 year law protecting the right of women to medical privacy and safe legal abortions. The policy allows abortion only in cases of rape, incest, or when a woman’s life is at risk, explains women’s health specialist Kayla Beare who joins this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame. The 1973 ruling affirmed that women had the right to seek abortion up until the point where a foetus could be viable outside of the uterus. 11 states have heavily restricted abortion while 12 states have laws in place to quickly restrict access to abortion, explains Beare.
There is surely a lot going on in Mzansi. Eskom, fuel, food prices? If your adult emotions are feeling down in the dumps, just imagine what the impact must be on our adolescent citizens of Mzansi. A mother in crisis from Kraaifontein asks how she can deal with her moody teen in the holidays. Cape Town social worker Tamsyn Alfino joins this episode of Sisters Without Shame with some advice.
This week a worker bee from Bloemfontein wonders if the work life is really her cup of tea and if she shouldn’t just find a sugar daddy and call it a day. Work will often take precedence over everything else in our lives forcing us to focus on success and neglect our mental health. Gauteng clinical psychologist Kelebogile Mojanaga talks finding work life balance on this episode of Sisters Without Shame.
We have heard of the physical consequence of carrying extra weight including lifestyle diseases like diabetes, heart disease and osteoarthritis. But not as much spotlight is given to the impact of extra weight on our mental and emotional health. On this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame, Dr Mothomang Diaho unpacks the psychological impact of carrying extra weight.
On episode 47 of Sisters Without Shame, a friend in crisis has become increasingly frustrated with her elderly uncle’s hesitancy to visit a doctor. Common reasons for men’s hesitancy to visit their GP include embarrassment, discomfort, and not wanting to change their diets. This is according to Men’s Foundation founder Garron Gselle.
On this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame human rights activist Steve Letsike unpacks the increase in HIV/AIDS infections of young women and adolescent girls. Letsike is the co-chairperson of South African National Aids Council. With over 30 million deaths across the globe and no known cure, HIV/AIDS remains a looming threat across the globe. Letsike is also the founder of Access Chapter 2 (AC2) an organisation that works to protect and promote the human rights of LGBTI people, women, and girls in South Africa.
On this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame, blood recipient Zukiswa Mpoka shares her story on how blood donation saved her life. June is dedicated to blood donors. Without them and their dedication to blood donation, lives would be lost. Did you know that only 1% of Mzansi’s population are active donors? Khensani Mahlanguis the communications officer for the South Africa National Blood Services and shares details of the process and what it takes to be a healthy donor in Mzansi. SANBS is a non-profit organisation licensed to provide blood transfusion services to the country.
On this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame, registered dietitian Anne-Marie De Beer unpacks “hidden hunger.” According to De Beer hidden hunger is often overlooked and difficult to detect. It is a micronutrient deficiency that weakens the immune system, stunts physical and intellectual growth, and can even lead to death. De Beer is the Nestlé South Africa’s Nutrition, Health, and Wellness Manager.
On this week’s episode of Sisters Without Shame, a parent in crisis needs advice on how to get her family healthy again. Following two years of restricted movement which saw the rise of living in screens and less outdoor activity, there is a concern that the childhood obesity problem may be exacerbated in Mzansi. This according to Western Cape dietitian, Jo-Anne Roets who has all the answers to our friend crisis’s concerns.
As the nights start drawing in, chances are it's more than just your body clock that's being whacky. Tight skin, rough knuckles, chapped lips? Say hello to winter, it is about to wreak havoc from head-to-toe. On episode 42 of Sisters Without Shame Professor Carol Hlela, a dermatologist from the Ingress Medical Centre in Cape Town, shares practical tips for taking care of your skin in winter. Hlela, hails from KwaMashu in KwaZulu-Natal, is one of only two specialist paediatric dermatologists in the country and is the head of the dermatology department in the paediatric unit at the Red Cross Children’s Hospital.
Mzansi no pressure, but let’s talk about blood pressure. If you still think that high blood is a disease for boomers and old people, you’d be sadly mistaken. Dangerously high blood pressure or hypertension can kill if left untreated. And get this, the disease knows no age, says Sister Shirley Grootboom. The seasoned nurse unpacks hypertension on episode 41 of Sisters Without Shame.
On episode 40 of Sisters Without Shame a future mom in crisis wonders if she is a bad mom for hating the “magical pregnancy experience.” Cape Midwife Natasha Stadler comes to her rescue and says that there are no universal rules of pregnancy. Sure there are no other organisms that grow up so fast and in such a complex way as a foetus, but everyone has the right to experience this phenomenon differently.
On episode 39 of Sister Without Shame a friend in crisis tells us that sleep is an enemy of her progress. In fact, if she could live without sleep, she wouldn’t mind. Experts in physiology, Dr Stella Lacovides and Dr Karine Scheuermaier unpack the importance of sleep. Sleep is an important function that allows your body and mind to recharge leaving you refreshed and alert when you wake up.
On episode 38 of Sisters Without Shame a friend in crisis says that she is not ready to face the reality that her son might be autistic. Mary Moeketsi (69) from Pretoria shares her words of wisdom for parents raising autistic children. Moeketsi is the Regional Development Officer for Autism South Africa.
Ever thought about what it takes to summit Africa’s tallest mountain? On episode 37 of Sisters Without Shame, sisters Bontle Moraladi (30) and Dineo Khumalo (43) unpack their journey up Mt Kilimanjaro. With mind in focus and fueled with purpose anything is possible these sisters say.
No matter how or why anyone’s body looks the way it does, we deserve to be respected and treated with care. A weary friend in crisis from KwaZulu-Natal says that she is nervous about going home for Easter over fears of being body shamed by her family. Pretoria-based clinical psychologist, Lumka Mabo joins episode 36 of Sister Without Shame to unpack the psychological impacts of body shaming.
If we were all born the same, then life wouldn’t be filled with the many twists and turns that make it worthwhile. This is the view of Shéri Brynard (40) from Bloemfontein. Brynard joins this episode of Sisters Without Shame to unpack life as a South African living with Down syndrome.
On episode 34 of Sisters Without Shame, a mother wonders if Mzansi is also feeling the pinch and struggling to put food on the table due to rising food prices. Andra Nel, KFC’s CSI joins this week’s episode to unpack child malnutrition in Mzansi.
There are less than 1% of South African men between 15 to 49 who have had vasectomies. On episode 34 of Sisters Without Shame, Johannesburg attorny Phetolo JAG Fakude (29)shares his own experience.
On episode 32 of Sisters Without Shame, Cape Town paediatric dentist Dr Farrah Seedat shares simple tips and tricks to help prevent dental caries in kiddies. Dental caries are a common and tragic occurrence in children she says. Seedat has advice for a weary Kathu parent in crisis who wonders how he can stop the tooth decay train and improve his children’s smiles.
It's a ladies special edition this week on Sisters Without Shame. Radio news editor, Merentia van der Vent unpacks her journey living with endometriosis. March marks Endometriosis Awareness Month. Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus is also found elsewhere in the body, mainly in the abdomen.
A friend in crisis is feeling burnout and like the world is weighing heavy on her shoulders. On episode 30 of Sisters Without Shame, Paarl based clinical psychologist Luc Scheepers shares some tips on how to make life choices that will prevent you from being overwhelmed.
On episode 29 of Sisters Without Shame, Centurion fertility specialist, obstetrician, and gynaecologist Dr Qinisile Diale sheds light on baby making and some stumbling blocks in the road to birthing new life after 35.
On episode 28 of Sisters Without Shame, clinical psychologist Maria Cloete unpacks love and all its kinks. Love is both a psychological and biological phenomenon says Cloete who practices in Cape Town. Love is also associated with enjoyment, attachment, affection, care, and devotion. She says that it is important to distinguish between the types of love. In February we generally celebrate Romantic love or Romance, which is an intense attraction involving the idealization of another within the erotic context and the expectation of “forever.”
On episode 27 of Sisters Without Shame, 56 year old cervical cancer fighter Rae Van Nieuwenhuizen from Hillcrest in KwaZulu-Natal, says early detection of cancer is life saving.
How do you feel about the food you eat? Haunted because you are not eating as much fresh fruit and vegetables as you should be? Or riddled with guilt because you just munched a whole KitKat after you made the resolution to keep your sweet treat craving at bay? Whatever the case. Healthy food relationships begin outside of restrictive dieting. Nondumiso Phenyane, a Stellenbosch based food blogger shares these sentiments and more of her food journey on episode 25 of Sisters Without Shame.
On this week’s edition of the Sisters Without Shame podcast, a listener says that she’s ready to test the vegan waters, but rather confused about where to start. So, we hooked up with programme manager for ProVeg International in Mzansi, Dr Nanine Wyma, to give clarity on plant-based lifestyles. ProVeg International is a food awareness organisation with the mission to reduce the global consumption of animals by at least 50% by 2040.
The end of school holidays is near. No more busy kids running your home. But before you breathe a sigh of relief and kick your feet up – now you’ve got nutritious lunches to worry about. A friend in crisis from Cape Town wonders what brain foods she can give her kids to make sure that they excel in school in 2022. Jason van Heerden is a registered dietitian from Pretoria who also specializes in child and sport nutrition. He joins episode 24 of Sisters Without Shame to unpack brains foods for kids.
On episode 23 of Sisters Without Shame, Pretoria fitness expert Nina Joubert unpacks realistic fitness goals for 2022. A friend in crisis wonders what the real difference between health and fitness is and also how quickly he can get healthy in 2022.
It is almost that time where we bid 2021 farewell and usher in a prosperous 2022. A friend in crisis from Johannesburg however is feeling weary of what the next year may bring. Cape Town clinical psychologist, Evelyn Beneke joins episode 22 to share some coping tips to manage anxiety in 2022. “Anxiety is the anticipation of future threats, and that understanding anxiety is proportional to the ability to treat it, it only gets better when you admit it.”
What’s Mzansi festive without a little indulgence? It is in this season where a friend in crisis says her cravings get out of control. Jason van Heerden a registered dietitian from Pretoria joins episode 21 of Sisters Without Shame to unpack overindulgence and cravings.
Woza summer, now is the perfect time for those picnics and braais, but be careful as the warmer temperature also creates the perfect environment to support harmful food bugs. On episode 20, a Friend in Crisis from Pampierstad learned this the hard way. Director of Food Consulting Services, a food testing laboratory in Johannesburg, Shane Rimmel joins this episode 20 and unpacks how to avoid food poisoning during this festive season.
They apologize and promise it won’t happen again. You even wondered if you could possibly be imagining the verbal or physical abuse. Is there ever really a way of knowing that your lover might hurt you? Mara Glennie joins episode 19 of Sisters Without Shame in aid of a friend in crisis from Jacobsdal who asks what the signs of an abuser are. “There is no vaccine for abuse,” says Glennie who is a survivor and the founder of TEARS. Glennie founded the foundation in 2012 and provides access to crisis intervention, advocacy, counselling, and prevention education services for those impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, and child sexual abuse in Mzansi.
On episode 18 of Sisters Without Shame, registered dietitian Eunice Mpehlo explores the benefits of a healthy diet in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. A friend in crisis hopes to better his chances in treatment seeking nutritional guidance. This is information that is often overlooked in his visits to his local clinic.
Always be ready for emergencies, warns paediatrician Prof. Claudia Gray, even if “looking after these little creatures can be quite exhausting.” Gray’s advice comes as the December holiday not only brings some Christmas cheer to new parents, but also anxiety when it comes to child safety. On episode 17 of Sisters Without Shame, Gray unpacks some of the festive-season safety dos and don’ts.
On episode 16 of Sisters Without Shame a friend looks forward to the day he will call himself a testicular cancer survivor. Survivorship begins from the moment of diagnosis, says radio and TV personality Mark Pilgrim. He tells men to realize that they need not always be the toughest in the room when faced with the disease. “Not every day is a strong day,” he says. Pilgrim was diagnosed with testicular cancer in his late teens. Survivorship continues from diagnosis, to treatment and through the survivor's life. His survival is a second chance.
On episode 15 of Sisters Without Shame, a friend in crisis says prevention is better than cure – he learned this the hard way following his prostate cancer diagnosis. Men should take nutrition seriously. Pretoria dietitian Jason van Heerden joins this week’s episode with insights on nutrition and the importance of a healthy diet for prostate cancer survival. Good nutrition may help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer, slow progression of the disease and prevent aggressive disease.
On episode 14 of Sisters Without Shame, a friend in crisis says he has recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Survivor and CANSA ambassador David Lucas (64) joins us for a heart to heart on the preconceptions, the journey and the road to healing our friend in crisis must face. Prostate cancer need not be a devastating disease and survivors do not have to walk the path to healing alone. Those three words - "you have cancer" - are also not the end of the road, says Lucas. “Those words make everyone sit up and stand up.” Lucas is a survivor and hopes that his journey with the disease may encourage men to get screened regularly. His reason is as straightforward as they come: “Early detection saves lives,” he says, adding that his own survival is a permanent reminder of his second chance at life.
The days of old-fashioned house calls may be over, but amid a global pandemic there is a growing trend towards providing some medical relief in the comfort of patients' homes. On episode 13 of Sisters Without Shame, a friend in crisis from Port Alfred says she is considering the option following a labour scare and fears of catching disease in clinics and medical offices. Sister Sharon Roziers from Relief Med, a Cape Town home-based care service, unpacks the benefits of receiving medical care in your own home.
“Our bodies are beautiful, they are healthy, they give birth, they give life and we do so much besides the pleasure that comes from our bodies. We must look after it, we must nurture it.” On episode 12 of Sisters Without Shame, Mzansi’s queen of epidemiology, Prof. Quarraisha Abdool Karim, unpacks women’s health and the life-saving power of knowledge. Knowing your body and what is normal for you is essential to maintaining your health, she says. Karim is one of the world’s foremost medical and scientific authorities in the field of HIV and AIDS research, with ground-breaking contributions to understanding the evolution and impact of the HIV epidemic, while also fighting for the rights of those affected by HIV and AIDS.
We will not pretend that menopause is easy: the hot flushes, sleepless nights and anxiety... On episode 11 of Sisters Without Shame, gynaecologist Dr Natalia Novikova helps to frame menopause and how to come to grips with this chapter of womanhood. After a friend from Tshwane tells the Sisters Without Shame that she feels clueless about the “big change” in her life, Novikova helps to patch some taboo information gaps on the subject.
There is no shame in period, but we do understand why asking some questions may leave you feeling awkward. On episode 10 of Sisters Without Shame, Dr Neelan Pillay comes to the aid of a young friend in crisis who says that her period experiences have been anything but normal. The Knysna teen sent an SOS to the Sisters Without Shame and fears that she might have irregular monthly cycles. Sandton specialist gynaecologist Dr Neelan Pillay talks through several possible reasons – and pregnancy isn't one of them.
Many experience signs of food intolerance from time to time and the discomfort lasts for a while. Others have the misfortune of having to eliminate those foods from their diets altogether. This may be the new reality for a friend in crisis in episode nine of Sisters Without Shame. Clinical dietician Bernice Venter joins the Sisters Without Shame to respond to an SOS from a friend in Mahikeng. He fears he may have to eliminate peanut butter from his diet and Venter confirms his worst fears. She says when people start asking the question, “Is it a food intolerance?” and they constantly have inflammatory symptoms like gut problems or bloating, they might be better off avoiding those foods.
Ever wondered what it takes to be a medical doctor in training in Mzansi? The Sisters Without Shame received a question from a friend with her sights firmly set on a career in medicine. Gauteng Dr Moratwe Masima is this week’s guest and unpacks the ins and outs of medical internships. Masima has been a medical intern at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Johannesburg for nine months and shares some words of encouragement based on her personal experience.
There are more factors affecting your ability to climax than you probably realise. In episode seven of Sisters Without Shame, alignment and intimacy coach Nu Davidson has some comforting words for a distressed friend who has never had an orgasm. “You are not broken if you cannot orgasm.” An anonymous writer from Free State reached out to Sisters Without Shame over fears that there might be something wrong with her. She has never experienced an orgasm in the 19 years she had been sexually active. Davidson, based in Cape Town, suspects that the hurdle to overcome may be in our distressed friend’s head as our mental well-being plays a major role in sexual experiences.
September marks Oral Health Month in Mzansi, a month earmarked to create awareness on the importance of good dental hygiene practices. And in episode six of Sisters Without Shame, Eastern Cape dentist and farmer, Dr Pieter Prinsloo, dispels myths about bad breath this week. The Sisters Without Shame received an emergency SMS from a friend in crisis in Ermelo, who says that she has been struggling with chronic bad breath and this is causing a bit of a rift between her and her partner. Dentist and farmer, Dr Pieter Prinsloo, suspects a multitude of reasons that could be indicative of a dental issue or something deeper.
In episode 5 of Sisters Without Shame, Gauteng clinician Dr Difuro Masemola unpacks telemedicine within the rural context. Covid-19 has highlighted the need for having telemedicine as a "safety net" to ensure continued access to healthcare services while maximising social distancing. But a friend in Vryburg – and we are sure they're not alone – needs some help understanding telemedicine. Simply put, telemedicine is a virtual consultation with a patient.
In episode four of Sisters Without Shame Tebogo Mothoana, an HIV/Aids activist from the Free State speaks candidly about his experience living with the treatable chronic illness. After being diagnosed with HIV/AIDS at the age of 25, Mothoana took to social media to spread awareness detailing his journey with the virus. HIV stigma and discrimination affect the emotional well-being and mental health of people living with HIV, and Mothoana is fighting the good fight for them. Sisters Without Shame is presented by Noluthando Ngcakani and Sinesipho Tom and proudly brought to you by Health For Mzansi.
In episode three of Sisters Without Shame, we look at men’s health. (They have problems too, you know.) We help a friend in crisis who says that he is very worried following penis complications that stem from getting circumcised. Limpopo general practitioner Dr Vusi Khosa believes that our friend’s age could have been a factor. Circumcision is centuries old and continues to be performed for a variety of religious, cultural, and medical reasons. Debate on the pros and cons of the practice are ongoing. “Sisters Without Shame” is presented by Noluthando Ngcakani and Sinesipho Tom. Proudly brought to you by Health For Mzansi.
On episode 2 Sisters Without Shame, a friend in crisis in Johannesburg fears she may be at the end of her emotional tether. Pretoria psychologist Lumka Mabo suspects she may be suffering from “burnout." Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It occurs when you feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet constant demands. "Sisters without shame" is presented by Noluthando Ngcakani and Sinesipho Tom. Proudly brought to you by Health For Mzansi.
In episode 1, "Sisters without shame" attends to a “friend in crisis” from Kimberley who has been suffering with dark discolouration around her neck, arm pits and thighs since she was in her teens. Cape Town-based dermatologist Professor Carol Hlela suspects “friend in crisis” might be suffering from either acanthosis nigricans or confluent and reticulated papillomatosis (CARP). These are two of the leading causes of hyperpigmentation of the skin. "Sisters without shame" is presented by Noluthando Ngcakani and Sinesipho Tom. Proudly brought to you by Health For Mzansi.