Page 12 - Bophelo - Edition Two | March 2025

For South Africa to combat the rise of diabetes in men
effectively, there needs to be a fundamental shift in how
Navigating Diabetes men approach health and wellness. Breaking down the
barriers of stigma, improving access to healthcare, and
fostering a culture that prioritises preventive care, both
in terms of prevention of disease and complications
associated with disease progression, are crucial steps
toward a healthier future.
Amid Social and Economic Challenges
Diabetes, a chronic condition affecting millions
for South African Men worldwide, is not just a matter of physical health. It is
deeply intertwined with social dynamics, economic
conditions, and mental well-being. In South Africa, the
impact of diabetes on men’s health is significant, not
only because of the high prevalence of the disease but
also due to the unique social, economic, and cultural
pressures that come with being a man in this complex
society. Addressing men’s health in the context of
diabetes in South Africa goes beyond controlling blood
sugar levels; it calls for an understanding of how this
disease influences men’s roles, relationships, and overall
quality of life.

The Rising Burden of Diabetes in South
Africa

Diabetes is rising at an alarming rate in South Africa,
with an estimated 4.5 million people currently affected.
Among them, men are particularly vulnerable due to
various lifestyle factors, socio-economic pressures, and an
often stoic approach to health that discourages proactive
medical care. As a leading cause of death in the country,
diabetes places immense pressure on healthcare systems,
with ripple effects that reach far beyond the individual,
infiltrating families and communities. South African men
that are primary breadwinners and heads of families, bear
a unique responsibility that can be compromised by the
debilitating effects of this disease.

For men, diabetes often manifests as a silent enemy. Many
are unaware of their condition until complications arise.
This is partly due to societal expectations that discourage
vulnerability or prioritise financial responsibilities over

health concerns. This negligence has dire consequences
in the advanced stages of diabetes, including an
increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, nerve damage,
and even amputation. Beyond physical symptoms,
diabetes also brings psychological challenges, affecting
a man’s confidence, social relationships, and ability to
fulfil traditional roles.

10 THE SOUTH AFRICAN MEDICAL RESEARCH COUNCILTHE SOUTH AFRICAN MEDICAL RESEARCH COUNCIL THE COMMUNITY ISSUE 11
10