Medical Matters

Aubrey speaks to Dr. Gideon Alers, General Practitioner with a special interest in Aesthetic and Anti-aging medicine, abut male baldness and how it an be treated. Male baldness affects men worldwide, with signs like thinning or receding hair starting as early as age 20. Thankfully, technology has brought us some treatment options. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On tonight’s medical matters we shed light on a common yet overlooked condition that affects the scalp, by causing thick, discoloured plaques and patches. For those who live with it, scalp psoriasis can impact everything from daily routines to self-confidence. Joining me to unpack the ins and outs of this condition—what causes it, how it differs from other skin issues, and the most effective ways...

This week is known as World Stroke Week and tomorrow is World Stroke Day (29th October), health organisations across South Africa are stepping up their efforts to raise awareness about stroke prevention and education. Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in South Africa, and it is critical for people to have greater awareness of the condition and its signs and symptoms, so that a vict...

The South African government first proposed a 20% sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) tax in 2016. However, after extensive consultations with the beverage and sugar industries, the levy was reduced to approximately 10%, coming into effect in April 2018. Despite this lower rate, studies up to April 2021 show that the HPL has led to significant reductions in SSB consumption, particularly among low-incom...

On tonight’s Medical Matters, we are focusing on rare condition that many might not be familiar with, that is Gaucher disease. This genetic disorder affects how the body breaks down certain fatty substances, leading to various health complications. While it’s rare, understanding it is crucial for those affected and their families. We’ll dive into what Gaucher disease is, how it’s diagnosed, and th...

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer affecting women across all racial groups, with a lifetime risk of 1 in 26 in South Africa, as reported by the 2022 National Cancer Registry (NCR). Both breast and cervical cancers are recognised as national priorities due to their rising incidence rates. On tonight’s edition of Medical Matters, we focus our attention on the rise of breast cancer in younge...

In honour of World Heart Day, which was marked yesterday, the 29th of September, we’re dedicating our Medical Matters today to Heart disease. Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. On tonight’s show we will explore the importance of heart health, discuss ways to prevent heart disease, and highlight the steps you can take to prote...

In honour of World Retina Day on the 24th of September, tonight on Medical Matters we’re focusing on the importance of retinal health. The retina plays a crucial role in vision, but conditions like macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment can threaten sight. How has your eyesight changed over the years as you get older? Joining us to unpack the signs and all that you need...

As we mark September as National Oral Health Month, we focus on the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene, not just for a healthy smile but for overall well-being. Oral health plays a critical role in preventing a range of conditions, from cavities and gum disease to more serious issues such as heart disease and diabetes. On tonight’s edition of Medical Matters, we’ll be joined Mangoedi-Kind...

Aubrey Masamgo chats to Aalia Goga, Registered Dietician from Newtricion Wellness Dieticians about kidney health and the role that food plays in protecting this vital organ. Goga spoke of the importance of drinking water because that really helps your kidney. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aubrey Masango chats to Dr Franclo Henning, Neurologist to get a better understanding of Muscular Dystrophy. Dr Henning explained different forms of Muscular Dystrophy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The last week of August holds great significance for traditional healers and herbalists across South Africa and the continent as we observe African Traditional Medicine Week. From August 26th to 31st, Africa recognizes the crucial role traditional medicine plays in providing accessible and affordable healthcare, along with its valuable contribution to global health. Remarkably, around 80% of Afric...

On tonight’s Medical Matters, we will be exploring important but often overlooked aspect of women’s health—postpartum care, especially for women in high-stress, high-leadership positions. Balancing the demands of work and personal life can be overwhelming, particularly for new mothers holding significant responsibilities in their careers. To guide us through this topic, we’re joined by Dr. Daniel...

This evening on Medical Matters we’re joined by Dr Dennis Rehbock, a Podiatrist, to talk about how to take care of your feet especially if you’re to be attending our annual walt the talk. Dr Rehbock will be talking about what shoes to wear, prepping your feet for the race, post-race footcare for the blisters and foot pain etc, general foot conditions and injuries, winter foot conditions like chilb...

On tonight’s edition of Medical Matters, we shed light on swollen gums and gum disease. Have you ever experienced this? These common oral health issues can lead to significant discomfort and more serious health complications if left untreated. We'll explore the causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies, as well as some steps you can take to maintain healthy gums. Joining us to have this conversa...

On tonight’s Medical Matters, we take a look at Hepatitis—a group of infectious diseases that affect millions of people worldwide. Hepatitis can lead to serious liver complications if not properly managed, but with the right knowledge and resources, it can be treated and prevented. Tonight, we will explore the different types of Hepatitis, discuss symptoms and treatments. All this and more with Ge...

This evening on Medical Matters we look at the issue of palliative care in South Africa. The sad reality is that most South Africans with advanced illness will spend their last months of life in pain and anguish because they cannot access palliative care. This specialised care that is provided to patients with serious, complex and advanced illnesses is still only offered by a few organisations in...

As winter sets in, it's essential to keep our immune systems strong and resilient. Tonight, we'll explore practical and effective ways to boost your immune system during the colder months. From nutritional tips and supplements to lifestyle changes and natural remedies, our guest, Vanessa Ascencao, Nutritional consultant and Wellness Expert will explore ways to improve your immune system. See omnys...

According to the National Department of Health in South Africa, six cases of Mpox have been confirmed in the country. Health Minister Joe Mphaahla expressed concern about the outbreak last week, noting that the six cases reported this year have been severe. Tonight on Medical Matters, we will be joined by Dr. Richard Lessells, Infectious Disease specialist at UKZN to explore what Mpox, formerly kn...

On tonight’s Medical Matters, we delve into an important and often overlooked issue: childhood trauma and its lifelong effects. Childhood trauma can profoundly impact an individual's mental, emotional, and physical well-being, shaping their experiences and relationships well into adulthood. As we observe National Child Protection Week, we will shed light on what childhood trauma is, how it manifes...

In May, the National Burns Awareness Week is observed from the 13th to the 17th. To mark this occasion, tonight's episode of "Medical Matters" will focus on reconstructive burn surgery. According to a report by the Medical Research Council, around 1.6 million South Africans sustain burn injuries annually, with most victims coming from impoverished communities. Reconstructive burn surgery not only...

On Medical Mattes this evening we look at World Myopia week which happens from 13th – 19th May. Myopia Awareness week is being observed worldwide, primarily to raise awareness, with emphasis on juvenile-onset myopia. Globally, myopia is a leading cause of avoidable vision loss. By the year 2050, nearly half of the world's population will be myopic. To tell us more about juvenile myopia we’re joine...

Although plastic surgery is often associated with cosmetic enhancements, it serves a broader purpose. Breast reduction surgery, for instance, addresses the discomfort experienced by women with oversized breasts, alleviating issues ranging from neck and back pain to respiratory difficulties. Have you ever considered getting a breast reduction? And why? Join us on our medical matters this evening as...

In today’s Medical Matters, we shed light on Edward's syndrome, also known as Trisomy 18. This rare genetic condition poses significant challenges for those affected and their families. Having recently discovered Edward’s syndrome through The Makhs on YouTube, who disclosed their newborn's diagnosis, I felt it was important to bring in an expert to educate us and provide further insight into this...

How much thought do you give to your baby's diet? Are you aware that the food you give your child during infancy can have long-lasting effects into adulthood? Research states that early exposure to various foods can impact their eating habits and weight later in on life. Tonight's discussion is sparked by a recent report from NGO Public Eye and International Baby Food Action Network which reveals...