Page 14 - IFV October Issue 2025
P. 14
Health
personalised health information Pharma Dynamics, emphasises the
and recommendations. AI-powered importance of leveraging digital tools
chatbots and virtual assistants can offer for health. “Men often delay seeking
immediate responses to health queries, medical advice due to various reasons,
helping men make informed decisions including societal expectations and
about their health. These tools can guide time constraints. Embracing digital
users on when to seek professional health tools can bridge this gap, offering
medical advice, interpret symptoms and accessible and immediate health
even schedule appointments. information that encourages proactive
Nicole Jennings, spokesperson for health management.”
The importance of regular health screenings
Regular health screenings are vital for early detection and prevention of
diseases. Jennings says men between 45 and 50 should undergo physical
exams and screenings annually for conditions such as high blood pressure,
cholesterol, diabetes and prostate cancer. Early detection significantly
increases the chances of successful treatment and can prevent complications.
“A lack of action can result in late diagnoses of conditions that might have
been more easily managed or treated if detected earlier,” she adds.
Jennings offers the following practical tips to help men make better use of
online health resources:
1. Use credible sources: Rely on reputable websites such as the National Real-life implications: The case
Department of Health and the World Health Organisation. MyDynamics, of ex-Springbok rugby hero, Rob
is another credible website that was developed by Pharma Dynamics Louw
to provide South Africans with quality information relating to various Former Springbok rugby player, Rob
health conditions. Louw’s life took an unexpected turn in
2. Leverage AI tools responsibly: Use AI-powered health apps and 2009 when, during a routine gallbladder
chatbots for preliminary assessments and to understand symptoms. operation, doctors discovered he had
Do keep in mind, however, that AI can make mistakes and should not aggressive metastatic melanoma. The
be used to replace the advice or diagnosis of a qualified healthcare early detection allowed for prompt
professional. treatment, which ultimately saved his
3. Schedule regular screenings: Use online platforms to book life. Since then, Louw has become a
appointments for routine health check-ups and screenings. vocal advocate for cancer awareness,
4. Stay informed: Subscribe to health newsletters and follow trusted urging men to prioritise regular health
health organisations on social media to stay updated on health tips check-ups and screenings. His journey
and news. serves as a powerful reminder that
5. Engage in online communities: Participate in online forums and early diagnosis can make a significant
support groups to share experiences and gain insights into managing difference in treatment outcomes.
health conditions.
“By embracing online resources and
AI tools, men can overcome barriers
to accessing health information and
services,” emphasises Jennings. “Regular
health screenings, informed by credible
online information, can lead to early
detection and better health outcomes.
It’s time for men to prioritise their
health by using the digital tools at their
disposal.”
Information supplied by Meropa
Communications on behalf of Pharma
Dynamics.
12 • October 2025 • The Villager