The ten most common women’s health problems in South Africa are breast cancer, cervical cancer, HIV, diabetes, osteoporosis, mental health conditions, cardiovascular disease, pregnancy complications, fertility issues and autoimmune diseases. Many are manageable or preventable when caught early, which is why regular screening and reliable access to a doctor matter so much. Below we explain each condition, its warning signs and how Bloom’s Health4Me cover helps you stay on top of your health.
Women carry a distinct set of health risks, shaped by hormones, reproductive health and conditions that simply present differently than they do in men. Knowing which problems are most common, and what to watch for, puts you in a far stronger position to catch them early. Bloom, together with our partner Momentum Health4Me, has pulled together the ten health concerns that affect women most, so you can make sure you have access to medical services, emergency care and chronic benefits when you need them.
If you are looking for affordable protection, you can explore health insurance options tailored to your needs.
Key takeaways
| • Breast and cervical cancer are the two most common cancers affecting women in South Africa, and both respond far better to treatment when found early. |
| • Regular screening, self-examination and an annual check-up are your strongest tools against most of the conditions on this list. |
| • Chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and autoimmune disorders are manageable with the right treatment plan and medication. |
| • Bloom’s Health4Me cover gives you access to GP visits, screening, chronic benefits and emergency care so cost is not the reason you delay seeking help. |
10 most common women’s health issues
1. Breast cancer
According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), breast cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting women in South Africa. It is important to carry out regular self-examinations to check for irregular lumps, and to have a mammogram screening every two years from the age of 45.
2. Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is the second most common form of cancer affecting women in the country. It is most successfully treated in the early stages, so it is important that women have a regular pap smear screening every two to three years, from the age of 21 up to around 65.
3. HIV
In South Africa, HIV prevalence is significantly higher amongst women than amongst men, with young women particularly affected. An early diagnosis helps you protect your immune system and manage your treatment plan effectively. Antiretroviral medication is available across the Momentum Health4Me options, in line with the prescribed HIV medication formulary, so you can access ongoing treatment and support. You can compare Health4Me options to see what each one covers.
4. Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition in which blood sugar levels become elevated because the body cannot use insulin properly. Type 2 diabetes is one of the leading causes of blindness, kidney disease, heart disease and stroke in women. Those most at risk include women with a high BMI, a poor diet or a family history of the disease. An annual blood-glucose test is used to screen for type 2 diabetes.
5. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone, leaving the bones brittle and prone to breaks or fractures. While it tends to affect older people, women are far more at risk than men because of the hormonal changes after menopause, when oestrogen levels drop. To reduce your risk, lead a healthy lifestyle with a varied diet and regular weight-bearing exercise.
6. Mental health
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group estimates that around 17 million South Africans live with mental health problems. Women are particularly susceptible to depression and anxiety, partly because of natural hormonal fluctuations, and many experience postpartum depression shortly after giving birth. Momentum Health4Me cover gives you access to a specialist psychiatrist, subject to a Network GP referral, to help treat those living with mental health issues. Members also have access to counselling and support services, plus a 24-hour trauma line, through the employee assistance programme.
7. Cardiovascular disease
Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death in South Africa, claiming an estimated 210 lives every day. Women face a unique set of risk factors, including hormone replacement therapy during menopause, gestational diabetes and oral contraceptives. Stay ahead of it with an annual heart awareness assessment, covered across the Momentum Health4Me Bronze, Silver and Gold health insurance options.
8. Pregnancy complications
The World Health Organisation estimates that around 830 women die from pregnancy or childbirth complications every day. Pre-existing conditions such as asthma or diabetes can worsen during pregnancy, putting both mother and child at risk. Many of these deaths are preventable when expectant mothers can access basic family planning and healthcare. Find out more about Bloom’s comprehensive maternity benefit.
9. Fertility issues
Many women struggle to conceive naturally. In South Africa, infertility is estimated to affect 15 to 20% of the population. There are several types of fertility treatment available, including medication, surgery and reproductive assistance, and speaking to your doctor early is an important first step.
10. Autoimmune diseases
An autoimmune disease is a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks its own healthy cells. The most common types affecting women include psoriasis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid conditions. Symptoms and severity vary from person to person, and treatment plans often include chronic medication to manage the condition over time.
Take charge of your health with BloomAffordable Health4Me cover gives you access to GP visits, screening and chronic benefits so you can stay on top of the conditions that matter most. Fill in your details and we will call you back. |
Frequently asked questions
Final thoughts
Many of the conditions on this list can be treated effectively or managed with the right care and chronic medication, and early action makes all the difference. The most important thing you can do is stay informed, keep up with your screenings and make sure cost is never the reason you delay seeing a doctor.
Make sure you are covered with affordable health insurance from Bloom and Health4Me. Take a look at the full range of benefits, or reach out through our Hello Doctor service to speak to a medical professional. To get started, get health insurance online by filling in your contact details and we will call you back.
