Latest news with #DiscoveryVitality
The Citizen
23-05-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Roodepoort parkrun sees strong turnout
The Roodepoort parkrun was once again buzzing with enthusiasm on Saturday, May 18, as 444 runners and walkers gathered, awaiting the run director's signal to start the 5km run. This was event number 607 and saw 29 volunteers facilitating the event by directing participants, scanning barcodes and providing support and encouragement. The event drew an amazing 31 first-time runners, and as always, a whole host of participants celebrated the coveted parkrun milestones, including Tatum King, who completed her 10th; Vincent Joel and Helen Mittwoch with their 100th; and Sadiq Gordon with his 150th run. Desmond Campbell was also honoured on the honours board for his 200th parkrun alongside Gielie Nel with 300, and John Carstens closed off the board with 350. Also read: Easter fun at parkrun According to Pascal Simba, the ambassador for Roodepoort parkrun, a new initiative has been introduced by Discovery Vitality and the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture called Give2move, which kicked off on May 10 in celebration of World Move for Health Day. Watch video here: 'The aim is to collect 100 000 pairs of shoes in all sizes, which will be donated to those who need them the most. 'Parkrunners are encouraged to donate old or new shoes of any size every Saturday, and that will be appreciated,' he said. Pascal would also like to remind the community that the parkrun takes place every Saturday at 08:00 at Len Rutter Park in Florida Park. The event is free and is a two-lap course. All you have to do is register on print out your barcode, and you are ready to become part of the parkrun community. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
20-05-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Know your numbers: Hypertension poses a silent threat to millions
Know your numbers: Hypertension poses a silent threat to millions World Hypertension Day, observed annually on May 17, is a global reminder of the silent but deadly condition affecting millions. Marking its 20th anniversary this year under the theme Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer!, the day encourages awareness, prevention and the control of high blood pressure. Hypertension, often referred to as high blood pressure, occurs when the force of blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. 'Unmanaged hypertension is very dangerous,' warns Dr Deepak Patel, a clinical specialist at Discovery Vitality, 'because it leads to aneurysms, strokes, kidney failure, blindness and cognitive impairment.' This is because, over time, the increased pressure damages blood vessels and forces the heart to work harder to circulate blood, potentially resulting in life-threatening conditions like heart disease and heart attacks. One serious concern with hypertension is that it often presents without noticeable symptoms. When they do occur, they might include headaches, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, heart palpitations and nose bleeds. These are warning signs that the heart and blood vessels are under severe strain. Patel explains that hypertension contributes to atherosclerosis, a thickening and hardening of the arteries that narrows blood flow. 'Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of coronary artery disease (heart attack), strokes and kidney failure,' he says. SA is in the danger zone The World Health Organisation reports that 10 million people die prematurely annually due to hypertension. This year, an estimated 1.56 billion adults globally will live with the condition. In SA, the figures are staggering. A 2016 Demographic and Health Survey found that 46% of women and 44% of men aged 15 and over suffered from hypertension. Even more concerning is that nearly half of South Africans with high blood pressure have never been tested and are unaware of their condition. What causes hypertension? There are two main types of hypertension. • Primary hypertension develops gradually over time and has no identifiable cause but is influenced by genetics and lifestyle; • Secondary hypertension stems from underlying conditions like kidney disease, vascular disease or tumours. Risk factors you can control Many risk factors linked to high blood pressure are lifestyle-related and preventable. The Mayo Clinic identifies the following as major contributors: • Age: Risk increases as you get older, particularly after age 64; • Race: People of African heritage are more likely to develop hypertension earlier and suffer complications such as stroke and kidney failure; • Obesity: More body weight means more blood is needed to supply tissues, raising blood pressure; • Family history: Genetics play a significant role in risk; • Physical inactivity: Lack of exercise leads to higher heart rates and increased arterial pressure; • High stress levels: Chronic stress and unhealthy coping mechanisms like overeating, smoking, or drinking can raise blood pressure; • Smoking: Tobacco damages the arteries and elevates blood pressure; • Excessive alcohol: Drinking too much, especially regularly, strains the heart; • Poor diet: A high sodium intake causes the body to retain fluid, increasing pressure; • Chronic illnesses: Conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, and sleep apnoea also elevate risk. The bottom line Hypertension might be silent, but it's far from harmless. Regular screening, healthy living and awareness are crucial to combat this condition. As World Hypertension Day reminds us: Accurately measure your blood pressure, control it and live longer. Knowing your numbers could save your life. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
eNCA
17-05-2025
- Health
- eNCA
Hypertension remains a 'silent' killer in SA
PHILADELPHIA - On 17 May 2025 is World Hypertension Day. Often known as a silent killer, Hypertension affects countless individuals without their awareness. Health experts are urging everyone to prioritise regular blood pressure screenings for better health management. Dr. Mosima Mabunda, Chief Clinical Officer at Discovery Vitality, says lifestyle factors play a significant role in hypertension. She says those who have been diagnosed with hypertension should exercise and eat properly.
The Citizen
16-05-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Give2Move inspires fitness and giving
In a strong show of unity and kindness, people across South Africa took part in Discovery Vitality's Give2Move campaign, marking World Move for Health Day with a renewed focus on helping others get active. Read more: Martial arts meets fun at SEISHIN Martial Arts Academy fitness challenge Vitality encouraged South Africans to donate new or gently used running and sports shoes as part of the Give2Move initiative. The goal? To help others take their first steps towards a healthier and more active life. Several new drop-off points were also added nationwide, making it easier for people to take part in the campaign. The events' highlights included fun and energetic activations at parkruns in key cities, as well as the Vitality Run Series event. These activities brought together seasoned runners, new walkers, and caring citizens in a shared celebration of movement. Delta Park was one of the parkrun venues that saw a great turnout. Among those who showed their support were Discovery Vitality CEO Dinesh Govender and South African running icon Bruce Fordyce, along with his wife, Gill, who has played a key role in bringing parkrun to the country. Also read: Fun, fitness, and fundraising at Blairgowrie Primary's fun walk Speaking at the event, Govender said: 'We often say that movement is medicine, but for many, the first step is the hardest, especially without the right gear. Give2Move is about making that first step easier. It is deeply moving to see South Africans come together in such a generous, joyful way.' Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie joined the KwaZulu-Natal leg of the Vitality Run Series. He praised the campaign, saying: 'Running has the power to change lives physically, emotionally, and socially. Giving someone the right shoes gives them that opportunity. I encourage all South Africans to open their hearts, and their cupboards, and make a difference.' The Give2Move campaign is based on a simple idea: Donating a pair of shoes to help someone else discover the life-changing joy of movement. Dr Mosima Mabunda, Discovery Vitality's chief clinical officer, said the campaign is rooted in the belief that physical activity should be for everyone. 'Moving more is one of the most powerful prescriptions for better health. Through Give2Move, we are not only encouraging South Africans to get active but also making it easier for others to experience the joy of movement, comfortably and enjoyably.' The campaign is still running, so, people who wish to donate can drop off shoes at the various locations, including: • All Discovery stores across the country, • Vitality Run Series events, • Team Vitality tier 1 and 2 hospitality events, • Discovery Soccer Parks (Mall of Africa, Wanderers, and Sandton), • Discovery Group offices nationwide, • Selected Sportsmans Warehouse and Virgin Active clubs, and • Chosen parkrun venues nationwide. To find your nearest drop-off point, or learn more, visit: Through Give2Move, Discovery Vitality continues to build a healthier, more connected nation, one donated shoe at a time. Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! Related article: South African Seniors Fitness Association visits Olivedale Library At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
12-05-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Stella AC gearing up for 50th Stella Royal
OVER 2000 runners and walkers are expected to participate in the 50th Stella Royal road race which will be hosted by the Stella Athletics Club around the leafy suburb of Glenwood on Sunday, May 18. The Stella Royal, which includes a 5km and 10km fun run/walk and 25km run, will coincide with the club's celebration of their 50th anniversary. Race director Kevin Hendrikse said they want the road race to be a big celebration of the club's half a century milestone with 'lots of community involvement' along the way. 'The Stella Royal road race, which runs through the streets of Glenwood, is very much community orientated,' said Hendrikse. 'We try to get the community involved as much as possible. Our water tables are managed by many of the schools around the area as well as local running club. The Community Chest is also involved in assisting with the water stations. With this being our 50th Stella Royal we want to go big with the race and have more involvement from the community.' Also Read: Lace up your running shoes for the Stella Royal Hendrikse said the Stella Royal is listed in the KZN race calendar and is part of the Discovery Vitality run series. A number of athletes use the race as part of their training preparation for the Comrades Marathon. Nkosinathi Ngcongo, who was third last year, said he will be marshalling the race this year. 'It's my way of giving back to the club for the support that they give us as athletes,' said the Comrades runner who is gunning for a silver medal. It is anticipated that around 2500 runners and walkers will be part of the road race that starts at Stella Sports Club on Helen Joseph Road – the 25km will start at 06:00, 10km at 06:30 and 5km 07:00. 'Our sports field will be transformed into a race village with marquees, it will be amazing. Metro Police will be there to ensure the safety of the runners and community members. The Glenwood UIP is also involved with law enforcement as we try to minimise the disturbance of residents in the area,' said Hendrikse. The race route runs through Glenwood to Umbilo, and past the Stellawood Cemetery for those doing the 25km. Online entry is open at and will also be available on the day. The entry fee is: 5km Fun Run/Walk: R100 (Late entry R100) 10km Run/Walk: R160 (Late entry R190) 25km Run: R220 (Late entry R250) Participants over 70: FREE Temporary Licence 10km: R80 Temporary Licence 25km: R110 Number collection is on Saturday, May 17, from 10:00 until 16:00, and on Sunday, May 18, from 04:30. All finishers will receive a medal and the top three finishers will receive prizes. For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
