Page 33 - Cornwall Issue 5 2025

HEALTH

Despite increased access to health information in today’s digital age,

many South African men remain under-engaged in managing their own

health. Women fare better in this regard

and immediate health information that developed by Pharma Dynamics to
encourages proactive health management.” provide South Africans with quality
information relating to various REAL-LIFE
THE IMPORTANCE OF REGULAR health conditions. IMPLICATIONS
HEALTH SCREENINGS 2. Leverage AI tools responsibly:
Regular health screenings are vital for Use AI-powered health apps Former Springbok rugby player, Rob
early detection and prevention of diseases. and chatbots for preliminary Louw’s life took an unexpected turn in
Jennings says men between 45 and assessments and to understand 2009 when, during a routine gall bladder
50 should undergo physical exams and symptoms. Do keep in mind, operation, doctors discovered he had
screenings annually for conditions such as however, that AI can make aggressive metastatic melanoma. The early
high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes mistakes and should not be detection allowed for prompt treatment,
and prostate cancer. Early detection used to replace the advice or which ultimately saved his life. Since then,
significantly increases the chances of diagnosis of a qualified healthcare Louw has become a vocal advocate for
successful treatment and can prevent professional. cancer awareness, urging men to prioritise
complications. “A lack of action can result 3. Schedule regular screenings: regular health check-ups and screenings.
in late diagnoses of conditions that might Use online platforms to book His journey serves as a powerful reminder
have been more easily managed or treated appointments for routine health that early diagnosis can make a significant
if detected earlier,” she adds. check-ups and screenings. difference in treatment outcomes.
4. Stay informed: Subscribe to health “By embracing online resources and
Jennings offers the following practical tips newsletters and follow trusted AI tools, men can overcome barriers
to help men make better use of online health organisations on social to accessing health information and
health resources: media to stay updated on health services,” emphasises Jennings. “Regular
1. Use credible sources: Rely on tips and news. health screenings, informed by credible
reputable websites such as 5. Engage in online communities: online information, can lead to early
the National Department of Participate in online forums detection and better health outcomes. It’s
Health and the World Health and support groups to share time for men to prioritise their health by
Organisation. MyDynamics, is experiences and gain insights into using the digital tools at their disposal.”
another credible website that was managing health conditions.

Cornwall View • Issue 5 2025 31