Category: Health

The Role of Companies in Employee Wellness

Posted on by Shazia Kassim

Hey Choma,

We’ve previously spoken about corporate wellness week from the employees’ side, what you could do at the workplace to take care of your mental health – “tips on how you can keep mentally healthy at work”.

Now let’s look at what is their responsibility to employee wellness!

Why corporate wellness week?

Corporate wellness week was established for companies to look at the holistic wellness of their employees. Acknowledging that healthy individuals, not only increase productivity and the overall success of the company but are more determined to work because of good morale.

What are the 4 pillars of holistic wellness?

1. Physical Wellness – companies should encourage healthy eating habits, exercise and regular health check-ups. They can contribute to this by bringing health practitioners on-site for general health check-ups or health screenings, fitness instructors to show workout options and start a work-out challenge with a reward. Include nutritionists, serve food on the day to motivate staff healthy eating habits, provide snacks in the office, etc.

2. Mental Wellness – Bring a mental health practitioner to speak on mental health issues including stress management, include ways to be mindful to staff and teach staff and management on how to be conversant on their issues and treatment thereof. Provide on-site massages and resources for staff post the wellness day.

3. Emotional Wellness – Educate the staff on a positive work-life balance, encourage self-care; skills to build resilience and educate them on emotional intelligence.

4. Social Wellness – Promote positive interactions within the workplace, encouraging teamwork, positive communication and creating an inclusive working environment. Management can also organize a separate team-building exercise to promote the social wellness of its staff.

Remember, this shouldn’t just be a one-week thing!

The best companies keep these things in mind year-round. They might offer flexible work hours to help with work-life balance or show appreciation for your hard work.

So next corporate wellness week, take advantage of what’s offered! It’s good for you and good for the company. After all, you deserve to feel good at work, too!

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

26th June 2024…Substance abuse awareness day!

Posted on by Shazia Kassim

Hey Chomas…

We have spoken so much about this topic before, from identifying when someone is abusing alcohol to how to speak to a friend about their substance use or abuse problem.

Let’s get back to basics.

What is the difference between substance use and abuse?

Using substances means drinking alcohol or smoking or injecting drugs, any form of intake that causes your mind to be disoriented, therefor causing your thinking and behavior to not function as per usual. This usually happens when there is a celebration or a so called ‘special occasion’, that some people may find it fitting to have one or two drinks to celebrate together.

Substance abuse however, is different. This is when the drinking or smoking is no longer a form of celebration but an over use of substances. A person may start drinking more regularly, either every weekend or every day and does not seem to have a limit, this is also known as addiction to substances. The substance starts controlling you.

What causes alcohol or drug abuse?

It could be anything from stress to mental health issues such as depression, as well as just learning to cope by consuming substances. In other cases, a person might start living a life of partying or hanging out with friends regularly, and start depending on alcohol to make them fun…this has also been known to be provoked by a low-self-esteem, when a person doesn’t feel good about themselves and relies on alcohol to make them more interesting…the feeling is always temporary and leads to further consumption of alcohol if we don’t learn to deal with our problems. Substance abuse has led to violence, abuse in the household, worse cases of mental health conditions and loss of loved ones and jobs, to say the least.

In this modern age, what qualifies as substances?

  • Nyaope, one of the cheapest forms of drugs in South Africa
  • Other drugs such as Crystal methampatime (known as meth or CAT); Crack Cocaine (known as coke) and Heroin (known as brown sugar)
  • Cannabis (marijuana, also known as weed, joint),
  • Alcohol
  • Cigarette and Hookah (also known as hubbly bubbly or oka pipe)

These are just some examples of well know substances, there are plenty more out there.

How do we prevent substance abuse?

The best way to prevent substance abuse is by not using the substances to start with. Regular use of any substance can lead to substance abuse. If one is disciplined enough, it will show through how frequently they consume and in the volume of the substance. For example, drinking alcohol once every Saturday or only once a month or only when there is a toast or one day celebration, and when starting to feel the effect of alcohol (also known as getting tipsy) knowing when to stop.

We also need to remember Choma, that substance abuse does not happen in a vacuum. There are usually other deep seated issues that might be leading us to use alcohol for example, as a coping mechanism. Understanding ourselves and our triggers is an important step in trying to prevent and address the issues we are struggling with and developing healthy coping mechanisms. Speaking to someone about our challenges is a good first step toward facing and addressing our issues so as not to use substances.

How do I get help for substance abuse?

There are organizations such as AA (Alcoholic Anonymous), the Department of Health’s alcohol line and SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group) who are skilled in assisting with substance abuse. If you or a loved one needs assistance, check out the details below:

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

24/7 Hotline 0861 435 722

WhatsApp 0730212523

Department of Social Development Substance Abuse Helpline
0800 12 13 14
SMS 32312

South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG)

Ke Moja Substance Abuse
087 163 2025

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

Why Going Offline is Good for You

Posted on by Shazia Kassim

In today’s digital age, it can be hard to disconnect from our phones. Between social media, online gaming, and streaming services, we’re constantly plugged in. While the internet offers a lot of benefits, taking time to go offline is good for your well-being. Here’s why unplugging can be so beneficial.

 

Improves Mental Health

Constant exposure to social media can lead to anxiety, depression, and feeling like you’re falling short. Taking breaks from the online world allows you to reset and reduce these negative emotions. Engaging in offline activities, such as reading a book or going for a walk, can help you relax and improve your mood.

 

Real-Life Connections

While online interactions are convenient, they can’t replace face-to-face connections. Spending time offline allows you to build stronger relationships with family and friends. It’s important to engage in conversations and activities that encourage deeper bonds and create lasting memories.

 

Productivity and Focus

Being constantly online can be distracting. Notifications, messages, and endless content can make it hard to concentrate on tasks. Going offline helps you focus better on your studies, hobbies, or any other activities. You’ll find that you can accomplish more in less time without the constant interruptions from your phone.

 

Physical Activity

Going offline gives you the opportunity to get up and move. Whether it’s playing a sport, going for a run, or even just taking a walk, physical activity is important for maintaining a healthy body and mind.

 

Better Sleep

Excessive screen time, especially before bed, can make it harder to fall asleep and affect the quality of your rest. Turning off your phone an hour before bedtime can help you sleep better and wake up feeling more refreshed.

 

Creativity

Taking time away from phone allows your mind to wander and explore new ideas. Offline activities like drawing, writing, or playing an instrument can boost your creativity. When you consume less content online, you’re free to create and imagine in ways you might not have otherwise.

 

Awareness and Presence

Being offline helps you be more present in the moment. It allows you to fully experience and appreciate your surroundings without the distraction of digital devices. Mindfulness, or being aware of the present, has been shown to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

 

Going offline might seem difficult at first, but the benefits are well worth it. By taking regular breaks from the digital world, you can improve your mental and physical health, build stronger relationships, and enjoy a more balanced life. So, take a step back, unplug, and see how going offline can make a positive difference in your life.

 

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me on Facebook Message,  Instagram message,  Twitter DM, or WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657)

Adolescent and Youth Friendly Services!

Posted on by Shazia Kassim

As a young person, why do I need to go to government clinics or hospitals when I fear that I will get shouted at or judged?

…because you have a right to get health services, allowed to access these services and never be turned back.

In the past, a lot of young people were afraid to go to our government clinics because they complained about bad services and that they were constantly judged for their health queries. This stopped them from going to seek healthcare services, thus leaving themselves at risk of being sick, infected or havingtheir conditions worsen.

In order to respond to the needs of young people, the Department of Health came up with the solution that would help with this problem…to train their staff and companies working with young people to know how to provide services to young people in a way that would make them feel less judged and more welcome at the health facilities. These are called Adolescent and Youth Friendly Services (AYFS), meant for all young people to understand their right to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. There is a list of standards that the health facilities must reach, in order to be called youth friendly.

What do youth friendly services include?

  • Education on family planning, STIs including HIV
  • Prevention of unplanned pregnancies, provision of contraceptives including condoms
  • HIV testing services
  • Screening for STIs and treatment of these STIs
  • Prevention of HIV for HIV negative clients, PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis – this is pilltaken once a day to prevent HIV infection)
  • Treatment of HIV positive clients, provision of ARVs (Antiretrovirals pills) and support
  • Screening for GBV (Gender Based Violence) and referrals thereof
  • Treatment for clients who have been exposed to the risk of acquiring HIV (PEP – Post-exposure Prophylaxes). For example, a person who has gone through rape or experienced a condom burst.
  • Other general health checks, conditions and health concerns and needs
  • Information on SRHR and other illnesses

AYFS clinics and hospitals usually try to adjust their facility times to suit young people and to also have specific areas in the facility to attend to young people where they are most comfortable.

Just keep in mind that not all health facilities have reached the required level of to qualify as youth friendly services but are a work in progress. Don’t ever let one bad service take away your right to receive health services.

You, Choma, have a RIGHT to good healthcare at our public health facilities…make use of it!

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me on Facebook Message,  Instagram message,  Twitter DM, or WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657)

Let’s Talk About: Home remedies for terminating pregnancy.

Posted on by Shazia Kassim

Hey Chomas,

So, I’ve been getting a lot of questions around home remedies for terminating pregnancy (Abortion), especially on “does coke and disprin work for abortion”?

This is only one of the home remedies that young women have used to get rid of pregnancy and your Choma is here to get real with you about that!

Well… disprin for one is an aspirin, an over-the-counter medication which is usually taken for mild to moderate pain such as headaches, nerve pain and to also treat fever associated with colds and flu.

A person who’s pregnant is not advised to take anything more than a necessary panado, as it is risky to the pregnant woman and her baby.

What does a home remedy like disprin do to a pregnant woman, her fetus or unborn baby?

It induces the pregnancy…inducing means using a strategy to start a process of labour. So, that will basically cause the fetus or baby to ‘escape the womb’. Inducing labour is only supposed to be done by a health professional (doctor) as there is a risk to the unborn baby or mother or if at due time of labour, the baby needs to come out to stop it from losing its life. These safe strategies conducted by a doctor are proven methods which ensure that the mother and baby remain safe.

So, what is this big risk about inducing pregnancy with things like disprin?

It will not only induce the pregnancy but will cause a life threat to the pregnant mother. What will happen is that you can experience what is called a partial miscarriage or incomplete abortion, which means some fetal tissue will still be left in the womb of the woman (also known as kobo in Sesotho)…this can be fatal, meaning cause death, for the woman because of the unusual bleeding or high infection due to the fetal tissue. This can only be treated medically.

A high dosage of disprin may also cause liver or kidney disorders, even affect the gastrointestinal tract (a pathway where food enters and solid waste is released). In short Chomas, disprin and coke are NOT safe pregnancy termination methods.

Tip: Rather rely on contraceptives to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Use methods such as PrEP to prevent HIV and make sure you learn about your sexual health, so that you keep your body healthy and make better life choices.

Still got questions, feel free to send me a message.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657)

Puberty: How to Treat Acne

Posted on by Shazia Kassim

Acne. It’s a word that can make any teenager cringe. But what exactly is acne? Why does it happen? And most importantly, how can you treat it and stay positive while dealing with it?

 

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It often causes pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads, and can appear on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders.

 

What Causes Acne?

Several factors can contribute to acne, including:

  • Hormones: During puberty, your body produces more hormones, which can lead to increased oil production.
  • Genetics: If your parents had acne, you may be more likely to develop it too.
  • Diet: eating junk food such cooldrink and chips often can cause acne, make sure that you always have a balanced diet.
  • Stress: Stress can trigger hormonal changes that may worsen acne.

 

How to Treat Acne

While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for acne, there are several things you can do to help manage it:

  • Cleanse Gently: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser twice a day to remove excess oil and dirt.
  • Avoid Harsh Products: Avoid using harsh scrubs or cleansers that can irritate your skin and make acne worse.
  • Use Non-Comedogenic Products: Look for skincare and makeup products labelled “non-comedogenic,” which means they won’t clog your pores.
  • Don’t Squeeze Pimples: It can lead to scarring and further inflammation.

 

Staying Positive with Acne

Dealing with acne can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Here are some tips for staying positive:

  • Focus on What You Can Control: While you can’t always control your acne, you can control how you take care of your skin and how you feel about yourself.
  • Practice Self-Care: Take time to do things that make you feel good, whether it’s exercising, reading, or spending time with friends.
  • Surround Yourself with Supportive People: Surround yourself with friends and family who lift you up and make you feel good about yourself.
  • Seek Professional Help if Needed: If acne is affecting your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek help.

 

Remember, acne is temporary, and with the right care and mindset, you can manage it and maintain a positive outlook.

 

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657)

What is Autism?

Posted on by Shazia Kassim

Autism is a term you might have heard before, but what does it really mean? In simple terms, autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a developmental disorder that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, and experiences the world around them. It’s called a “spectrum” disorder because it can affect people in different ways and to varying degrees.

 

What Causes Autism?

The exact cause of autism is not known, but researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may play a role. This means that someone is born with autism, and it’s not something that can be caught from someone else.

 

Common Characteristics of Autism

People with autism might have difficulty with social interactions, communication, and repetitive behaviours. For example, they might have trouble understanding social cues like facial expressions or tone of voice, or they might have a strong interest in specific topics and engage in repetitive behaviours like rocking or clapping hands.

 

Autism is Part of Who Someone Is

It’s important to remember that autism is just one aspect of a person’s identity. Everyone is unique, and having autism is just one part of what makes a person who they are.

 

How to Support Someone with Autism

If you know someone with autism, there are ways you can support them. Be patient and understanding, and try to learn more about autism to better understand their perspective. Everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect, regardless of their differences.

 

Autism is a complex and often misunderstood condition, but with understanding and support, people with autism can lead fulfilling lives and make valuable contributions to the world around them. It’s important to be accepting of differences and to remember that everyone is unique in their own way.

 

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me on Facebook Message,  Instagram message,  Twitter DM, or WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657)

Navigating the Landscape of Emergency Contraception and Unplanned Pregnancy

Posted on by admin

Insights from a South African Survey**

 

Authors: Mrs Yashmita Naidoo CEO of HIV SA, Dr Venessa Timmerman (PhD) and Mr Siraaj Adams (MBA, MPH).

HIVSA is an NGO that commissioned the national survey.

 

Introduction

Studies have reported that students between 18 and 24 years have one of the highest rates of unplanned pregnancies. The lack of effective knowledge concerning contraceptive use results in an increase in unplanned pregnancies (Bryant 2009:12; Trieu et al. 2011:431).

In a study amongst 15 to 24-year-old South African women, it was estimated that only 52.2% of sexually experienced women are using contraceptives (MacPhail et al. 2007:3). Because of the fact that 80% of undergraduate students at higher educational institutions are sexually active, it is vital that they have access to safe, accessible and adequate contraceptive services (Bryant 2009:12). Dreyer (2012:6) suggests that the main reasons for women not utilising or discontinuing the use of contraceptives are side effects, lack of knowledge about different methods available, or lack of interest in utilising it.

In the study amongst students in Durban, South Africa, Roberts, Moodley and Esterhuizen (2004:441) suggested that an increase in the use of emergency contraceptives might reduce the number of unplanned pregnancies.

In our recent survey conducted in South Africa, we embarked on a comprehensive examination of emergency contraception and unplanned pregnancy among 469 female respondents aged between 20 and 35. This survey sought to uncover the prevailing landscape surrounding the use of emergency contraception, experiences with unplanned pregnancies, and the evolving attitudes toward contraceptive accessibility. The data gathered provides crucial insights into the reproductive health dynamics of young women in South Africa.

 

Understanding Emergency Contraception Practices

Our survey captured the experiences and choices of a diverse group of women,469 respondents from all 9 provinces, offering a comprehensive view of emergency contraception practices. The respondents provided valuable insights into the frequency of morning-after pill usage and the prevalence of unplanned pregnancies.

 

Key Survey Findings

  1. Morning After Pill Usage

A significant 49.3% of respondents reported having used the morning-after pill, highlighting the concerning high utilisation of emergency contraception in managing reproductive health.

  1. Repetitive Morning After Pill Usage:

Over 21% of respondents revealed using the morning-after pill more than 2 to 3 times, indicating a recurring reliance on emergency contraception among a notable portion of the surveyed population.

  1. Unplanned Pregnancies on Hormonal Contraception

Alarmingly, 18.6% of respondents reported falling pregnant while on some form of hormonal contraception. This finding underscores the need for further exploration into the effectiveness of existing contraceptive methods or whether or not non-compliance by patients is a factor.

  1. Incidence of Unplanned Pregnancies

Nearly 45% of respondents disclosed experiencing unplanned pregnancies, verifying the concerningly high prevalence of unexpected reproductive outcomes among young women in South Africa.

  1. Termination of Pregnancy

A significant 19% of respondents confirmed having undergone a termination of pregnancy, primarily at public health facilities. This highlights the crucial role these facilities play in addressing reproductive health needs.

  1. Preference for Online Morning After Pill Purchase

Almost half of the respondents, approximately 47%, expressed a willingness to purchase the morning-after pill online. This inclination reflects a growing demand for convenient and discreet avenues for accessing emergency contraception.

Implications and Considerations

These survey findings carry substantial implications for reproductive health policies, healthcare providers, and the broader community. The prevalence of unplanned pregnancies, the repetition of morning-after pill usage, and the occurrence of pregnancies while on hormonal contraception warrant careful consideration.

 

Conclusion

The prevalence of contraceptive use by sexually active students in previous research was high at 79%. However, inconsistent use of contraceptives is a major challenge. Females were aware of the benefits of contraceptives in preventing unplanned pregnancies; however, they used contraceptives inconsistently as a result of being afraid of possible side effects. Overall, there was limited awareness and use of emergency contraceptives. Consistent use of regular contraceptives and condoms should be emphasised to reduce not only unplanned pregnancies but also sexually transmitted diseases (Brunner Huber & Ersek 2009:1069).

In a study among students in Durban, South Africa, Roberts et al. (2004, p. 441), suggested that an increase in the use of emergency contraceptives might reduce the number of unplanned pregnancies. However, due to the lack of knowledge and awareness thereof, the family planning services were underutilised (Roberts et al. 2004, p. 441).

Our survey provides a comprehensive snapshot of the current landscape of emergency contraception and unplanned pregnancy among young South African women. The findings underscore the importance of accessible and effective reproductive health services. Efforts should be directed towards enhancing awareness, ensuring the availability and education around use of reliable contraceptive methods, and exploring innovative solutions, such as online access to emergency contraception. By addressing these needs, we can empower women to make informed choices about their reproductive health, contributing to a healthier and more equitable future. This survey serves as a catalyst for ongoing discussions and actions aimed at fostering reproductive well-being among South African women.

 

References

Bryant, K.D., 2009, ‘Contraceptive use and attitudes among female college students’, Journal of ABNF 20(1), 12-16. PMID: 19278182.

Dreyer, G., 2012, Contraception: A South African perspective, Van Schaik Publishers, Pretoria.

MacPhail, C., Pettifor, A.E., Pascoe, S. & Rees, H.V., 2007, ‘Contraception use and pregnancy among 15-24-year-old South African women: A nationally representative cross-sectional survey’, BMC Medicine 5, 31. PMID: 17963521, http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/1741-17015/5/31

Roberts, C, Moodley, J & Esterhuizen, T 2004, Emergency contraception: knowledge and practices of tertiary students in Durban, South Africa, Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, vol. 24, no. 4 pp. 441-445, doi:10.1080/0144361040001685619

Failure of the emergency contraceptive levonorgestrel and the risk of adverse effects in pregnancy and on fetal development: an observational cohort study”: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0015028205008861

Navigating the Market Landscape of STI Treatment

Posted on by admin

Insights from a Survey of South African Women

Authors: Mrs Yashmita Naidoo CEO of HIV SA, Dr Venessa Timmerman (PhD) and Mr Siraaj Adams (MBA, MPH)

HIVSA is an NGO that commissioned the national survey.

 

Introduction

According to research, South Africa has the highest prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) in Africa. In 2017, there were an estimated 6 million new CT, 4.5 million NG and 71,000 Treponema pallidum infections among South African men and women of reproductive age(1).

In our recent market survey conducted in South Africa, we aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the sexual health practices, preferences, and treatment experiences of female respondents aged between 20 and 35. An online survey was conducted targeting 500 female respondents in the 20 to 35 age group and 469 responses were received. This exploration focused on assessing the current landscape for sexually transmitted infection (STI) treatment, shedding light on awareness, accessibility, and the evolving preferences of young women.

 

Understanding Sexual Health Practices

Our respondents provided a comprehensive view of sexual health practices among South African women in the specified age range. The survey explored key aspects, including the prevalence of casual sexual partners, awareness of STI treatment facilities, and the frequency of STI treatment.

 

Key Survey Findings

  1. Casual Sexual Partners

Approximately 33% of respondents reported having confirmed some form of casual sexual partnership (including friends with benefits, multiple casual partnerships, situationships and open relationships), highlighting the diversity of sexual health preferences within this demographic.

 

  1. Awareness of STI Treatment Facilities

A commendable 90% of respondents indicated awareness of where to receive STI treatment, suggesting successful dissemination of information regarding available treatment facilities.

  1. STI Treatment Uptake

Over 23% of respondents confirmed receiving STI treatment, signalling a proactive approach to seeking medical intervention when faced with STIs. The disparity between 90% of participants having been tested for an STI compared to only 23% receiving treatment may indicate a need to research barriers to STI treatments more in-depth.

  1. Commonly Treated STIs

Specific STIs treated included 48% for urinary tract infections, 10% for chlamydia, 8% for genital warts, and 7% for gonorrhoea, providing valuable insights into the prevalence of different STIs.

  1. Preference for Treatment Delivery

A notable 47.8% of respondents expressed a preference for receiving STI treatment or treatment delivery at home. This inclination suggests a growing demand for convenient and discreet healthcare options.

  1. Online Consultation Preference

Significantly, 54.8% of respondents expressed a preference for online consultations for their STI treatment. This finding underscores the evolving dynamics in healthcare preferences, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to meet the demands of a changing telehealth landscape.

  1. **Sexual Activity Frequency

More than 65% of respondents reported engaging in sexual activity either daily or weekly, highlighting the importance of accessible and timely STI treatment services to support the sexual health of this demographic.

Implications and Considerations

Although research has shown that a high percentage of sexually active people in SA understand the importance of condom use, there is still a need to emphasise better STI screening and management strategies (1).

The Choma survey findings carry implications for healthcare providers and policymakers. While the high awareness and treatment uptake is positive, efforts should continue to ensure accessibility and address potential barriers to seeking treatment.

Untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can lead to significant morbidity, particularly among women, resulting in complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, infertility, pregnancy complications, and newborn infections. Additionally, STIs can induce genital inflammation and increase the risk of HIV acquisition and transmission, even in asymptomatic cases. The majority of STIs occur in low- and middle-income countries, with sub-Saharan Africa bearing the highest burden in terms of age-standardized incidence rates and disability-adjusted life years lost. In southern Africa, there’s a notable epidemiologic overlap between curable STIs and HIV, especially among adolescents and young adults who face the highest risk of STI acquisition and have the highest HIV incidence rates. Therefore, improved diagnosis and treatment of curable STIs are crucial in reducing morbidity and are integral components of multimodal HIV prevention efforts(2).

The expressed preferences for home-based treatment delivery and online consultations emphasize the need for innovative and flexible healthcare solutions to cater to the evolving needs and preferences of the population.

 

Conclusion

Our survey provides valuable insights into the current state of STI treatment awareness, preferences, and practices among young South African women. The identified preferences for home-based treatment delivery and online consultations underscore the importance of adapting healthcare services to meet the evolving needs of the population.

 

References

  1. Harryparsad R, Meyer B, Taku O, Serrano M, Chen PL, Gao X, Williamson AL, Mehou-Loko C, d’Hellencourt FL, Smit J, Strauss J, Nanda K, Ahmed K, Beksinska M, Buck G, Morrison C, Deese J, Masson L. Prevalence and incidence of sexually transmitted infections among South African women initiating injectable and long-acting contraceptives. PLoS One. 2023 Nov 10;18(11):e0294285. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294285. PMID: 37948399; PMCID: PMC10637674.
  2. Jarolimova, Jana MD, MPH; Chidumwa, Glory PhD; Chimbindi, Natsayi PhD; Okesola, Nonhlanhla BSN; Dreyer, Jaco NDipIT; Smit, Theresa PhD; Seeley, Janet PhD; Harling, Guy ScD; Copas, Andrew PhD; Baisley, Kathy MSc; Shahmanesh, Maryam PhD; the Isisekelo Research Group; Herbst, (Carina MSc; McGrath, Nuala ScD; Zuma, Thembelihle PhD; Khoza, Thandeka MBChB; Behuhuma, Ngundu MBChB; Bassett, Ingrid V. MD, MPH; Sherr, Lorraine PhD). Prevalence of Curable Sexually Transmitted Infections in a Population-Representative Sample of Young Adults in a High HIV Incidence Area in South Africa. Sexually Transmitted Diseases 50(12):p 796-803, December 2023. | DOI: 10.1097/OLQ.0000000000001871

Unveiling the Landscape of HIV Self-Testing in South Africa

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A Comprehensive Survey Analysis

Authors: Mrs Yashmita Naidoo (CEO of HIVSA), Dr Venessa Timmerman (PHD) and Mr Siraaj Adams (MBA, MPH).

HIVSA is an NGO that commissioned the national survey.

 

Introduction

HIV testing is the first step in linkage to HIV care, including prevention or treatment services. The United Nations Joint Programme on HIV/AIDS has set interim 95-95-95 targets: that 95% of people living with HIV know their HIV status, 95% of these are to be initiated onto antiretroviral treatment (ART), and that 95% of these should be virally suppressed by the end of 2030(1). Alternative HIV testing strategies are needed to overcome barriers to traditional clinic-based testing; HIV self-testing (HST) is one modality that offers promise in reaching individuals who experience barriers to clinic-based testing.

In December 2023, HIVSA conducted a comprehensive survey targeting 500 female respondents in South Africa, aged between 20 and 35 years. An important objective of the survey was to assess the current landscape of HIV self-testing in the country. With representation from all nine provinces, this survey delved into crucial aspects of awareness, testing patterns, and the potential acceptance of online purchase options for HIV testing kits.

 

Method

A survey was created digitally and hosted on the Choma website, comprising of the following categories: personal details, e-commerce habits, financial wellness, sexual and reproductive health, family planning and health and wellness. Each category was presented as a separate page, with a progress bar to indicate how much of the survey had been completed.

All survey submissions were saved and stored in a cloud-based platform for our data analyst to generate a report from, and our marketing team to track submission numbers. Once we had identified a plateau or slowing of survey submissions, we generated reports from 469 submissions.

Our survey submission collection period was from the 27th of December 2023 to the 15th of January 2024, when it was observed that survey submissions had slowed significantly.

 

Key Survey Findings

  1. Understanding the RespondentsHIV self testing survey demographics
  2. Description of Participants based on the Graph

Our diverse pool of respondents provided a holistic representation of South African women in the specified age group. Their insights offer a valuable snapshot of the prevailing attitudes and behaviours related to HIV testing.

  1. Willingness to Purchase Online

Notably, 52.4% of the respondents expressed a willingness to purchase HIV testing kits online. This finding underscores a growing openness to utilizing online platforms for obtaining essential healthcare resources.

HIV self testing survey online purchase

  1. Awareness of HIV Status

A staggering 91.4% of respondents reported being aware of their HIV status. This high level of awareness is a positive indicator of the effectiveness of existing HIV awareness and testing initiatives in South Africa.

Awareness of HIV status

  1. HIV Testing Patterns

Over 60% of respondents revealed that they had undergone HIV testing within the last three months. The frequency in testing pattern is encouraging and suggests a proactive approach to monitoring one’s health status.

HIV testing patterns

  1. Regional Representation

Our survey reached respondents across all nine provinces in South Africa, ensuring a geographically diverse sample. The inclusion of perspectives from different regions enhances the reliability and applicability of our findings, considering the diverse healthcare landscape in South Africa.

Survey respondent locations

  1. Online Purchase and Accessibility

The willingness of 52.4% of the respondents to buy HIV testing kits online indicates a potential shift in the accessibility and distribution of essential healthcare tools. This trend aligns with the global movement toward digital health solutions, emphasizing convenience and privacy.

 

  1. The Significance of HIV Awareness

The exceptionally high rate of HIV awareness (91%) among our respondents showcases the effectiveness of awareness campaigns and healthcare education in South Africa. It suggests that efforts to destigmatize HIV testing and encourage regular screenings have made a positive impact.

 

  1. Encouraging Proactive Healthcare

The finding that over 60% of respondents have undergone HIV testing in the last three months reflects a proactive and responsible approach to healthcare. Regular testing is crucial for early detection and timely intervention, contributing to overall public health improvement.

 

Conclusion

Research in 2020, found that the vast majority (95%) of young women chose HIVST over clinic-based HCT.

The insights gained from our survey paint a promising picture of the state of HIV self-testing awareness and practices among South African women aged 20 to 35. The data reveals a willingness to embrace online avenues for purchasing testing kits, a high level of HIV awareness, and a commendable commitment to regular testing. These findings not only shed light on the current landscape but also provide valuable information for shaping future healthcare policies and interventions related to HIV testing in South Africa. As we move forward, it is imperative to build upon these positive trends, ensuring continued accessibility and acceptance of online healthcare platforms.

 

References:

  1. UNAIDS. Understanding fast-track targets. Accelerating action to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030 [document on the Internet]. UNAIDS, 2015. [cited September 28, 2021]; p. 12. Available from: https://www.unaids.org/sites/default/files/media_asset/201506_JC2743_Understanding_FastTrack_en.pdf [Google Scholar]
  2. Audrey Pettifor, HIV self-testing among young women in rural South Africa: A randomized controlled trial comparing clinic-based HIV testing to the choice of either clinic testing or HIV self-testing with secondary distribution to peers and partners. 2020