Gender dynamics and South African societal roles can hinder women’s healthcare as one-in-three women suffer from urinary incontinence, and one-in-four have pelvic floor disorders, conditions often overlooked, leaving many to suffer in silence. Additionally, CANSA reports breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers as the top three cancers affecting women. “At Urology Hospital we aim to dispel the myth that only men need to visit urologists,” says Dr Marinka Hoek, Urology Hospital.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD), a progressive and irreversible loss of kidney function, affects one-in-eight South Africans and over 850 million people globally, resulting in over 3.1 million deaths (2019). Despite CKD being more common in women, more men receive kidney replacement therapy (KRT), likely due to faster CKD progression in men and women’s reduced access to costly health care. Untreated kidney failure is life-threatening, demanding urgent awareness and action.
Many women prioritise family needs and avoid seeking early care due to gendered power dynamics, socioeconomic status or pressure, and traditional roles i.e., depending on others to make health care decisions, resulting in delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes.
Dr Hoek explains, “Some women are simply unsure of where to seek help or too embarrassed to ask and therefore may overlook their own health issues and only seek help when their symptoms become unmanageable. We hope to raise awareness, share knowledge, and provide women with the opportunity to discuss their health and wellness with us.”
At Urology Hospital we offer a range of specialised treatment and care. Our newly opened Dialysis Unit – the Uro Kidney Care provides comprehensive kidney care services to patients with acute and chronic kidney disease. Urology hospital also has a state-of-the-art urodynamic unit, physiotherapy, Robotic Surgery, and a Pelvic Wellness Centre. We are committed to offering high-quality, patient-centred care.
On Wednesday, August 31st, Urology Hospital, South Africa’s leading specialised urology centre and a technological innovator in Africa, proudly presents its inaugural Women’s Wellness Day. This groundbreaking event is dedicated to women’s health and wellness and will feature discussions and activities designed to empower and educate.
1. Breast Health Session
2. Pelvic Floor Exercises
3. Bladder Health
4. Incontinence Management
5. Diet Tips
6. Sexual Health Discussions
7. Interactions with our female specialists
8. Kidney Health Screening
Details:
• Date: 31 August 2024
• Time: 09:00 – 15:00
• Location: Urology Hospital, Pretoria
For more information and to book your spot contact Urology Hospital on 012 423 4000 or email lebom@urology.co.za.
