What’s the difference between perimenopause and menopause? How do you know when it’s starting — and what can you do about the symptoms?In this episode of Health Matters SA, brought to you by Cipla, host Ryan O’Connor speaks with Dr. Nompumelelo Zenda (Dr. Gynae) about everything you need to know during this important stage of life.They discuss:-The real signs and symptoms of menopause- The pros and cons of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)- Lifestyle treatments that actually work- How to protect your bones and mental health during menopauseClear, compassionate, and full of expert advice — this episode helps you make informed decisions about your health.#HealthMattersSA #Cipla #DrGynae #MenopauseEducation #WomensHealthPodcast #Perimenopause
At the Mind Matters Summit in Cape Town, Dr. Chanell Marthinussen sits down with Mo Gawdat, author of Solve for Happy and former Chief Business Officer at Google [X], for an eye-opening conversation on happiness, resilience, andthe art of emotional balance.
Mo shares his renowned “equation for happiness”—a simple yet powerful framework for finding calm when life feels overwhelming. Together, they unpack how to protect your mind in the age of information overload, redefine successbeyond achievement, and respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.
Drawing on his personal journey through loss and purpose, Mo offers a heartfelt reminder: lasting happiness begins within.
Key themes you’ll discover in this episode:
• How to apply Mo’s “equation for happiness” when life gets stressful• Protecting your mind from burnout in a world of constant noise• Redefining success: from chasing achievement to finding peace• Responding with mindfulness instead of reacting to everything• One daily habit that can strengthen your mental well-being
🔴 ABOUT US
Wellness and health—it’s kind of a bigger deal than ever, but where do you go on this whole wide internet for the best medical advice? And how often are you finding information that takes on a South African perspective?
That’s why Cipla brings you Health Matters — a series that puts experts from across the medical world right in your earbuds or speakers.
Our aim is to provide topical and relevant information on healthcare, withkindness — because Health Matters.
🔔 Subscribe now to theHealth Matters Channel and be part of the movement that puts mental well-beingat the center of health.
#MindMatters #Cipla #MoGawdat #SolveForHappy #MentalHealth #HappinessEquation #HealthSummit2025 #CaringForLife #Resilience #Mindfulness
At the Mind Matters Summit in Cape Town, Dr. Darren Green sits down with Paul Miller, CEO of Cipla Africa, for a powerful conversation on mental health, resilience, and redefining how we connect with ourselves and others.
From the groundbreaking idea of asking “How’s the weather inside you?” to normalize mental health check-ins, to the importance of destigmatizing conversations around anxiety, stress, and emotions, this discussion highlights the future of mental well-being in the workplace and beyond.
Paul also shares his personal journey—from balancing fatherhood and sports to tackling triathlons and trail running—and how those lessons shape Cipla’s ethos of Caring for Life.
Key themes you’ll discover in this episode:
🔴 ABOUT US
Wellness and health - it’s kind of a bigger deal than ever, but where do you go on this whole wide internet for the best medical advice?
And how often are you finding information that takes on a South African perspective?
That’s why Cipla brings you Health Matters. This is a series that puts experts from across the medical world right in your earbuds or speakers.
Our aim is to provide topical and relevant information on healthcare, with kindness, because Health Matters.
🔔 Subscribe now to the Health Matters Channel and be part of the movement that puts mental well-being at the centre of health.
#MindMatters #Cipla #MentalHealth #HealthSummit2025 #CaringForLife #Resilience
Looking for the best birth control option? In this episode of Health Matters SA, Ryan O’Connor is joined by Dr. Nompumelelo Zenda to break down the pill, IUD, injection, and patch — how they work, side effects, pros and cons, and common myths.
What we cover:How each method works (pill, IUD, injection, patch)Effectiveness & side effects explainedBusting myths about weight gain, fertility & condomsHow to choose the right method for your lifestyle and health
Birth control isn’t one-size-fits-all. The best choice is the one that fits you.#BirthControl #Contraception #DrGynae #HealthMattersSA #WomenHealth #Pill #IUD #Injection #Patch
In this episode of Health Matters SA, host Ryan O’Connor sits down with the phenomenal Dr. Nompumelelo Zenda. Together, they unpack two of the most misunderstood women’s health conditions: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Endometriosis. Although both can impact fertility and cause chronic symptoms, their causes, diagnosis, and treatments are very different.From hormonal imbalances to painful periods, missed diagnoses to fertility challenges — this conversation is a must-watch for anyone navigating reproductive health or supporting a loved one.In this episode, we cover:What PCOS and Endometriosis actually are – and how they differThe causes and risk factors behind each conditionWhy so many women are misdiagnosed or dismissedHow these conditions affect fertility in unique waysTreatment options tailored to each condition💬 Whether you’ve been diagnosed, suspect something’s wrong, or simply want to better understand women’s health, this episode offers clear insights, empathy, and expert advice.📌 Brought to you by Cipla#PCOS #Endometriosis #WomensHealth #Fertility #HealthMattersSA
In this episode of Health Matters, host Ryan O’Connor sits down with South African long-distance running champion Gerda Steyn. From record-breaking Comrades wins to daily discipline, Gerda shares what it really takes to stay at the top — physically and mentally.
We dive into her training routines, nutrition strategies, recovery tips, and the mental tools she uses to push through pressure and fatigue. Whether you're an athlete, aspiring runner, or just looking for inspiration to move more and live well, this conversation will leave you motivated and energised.
Brought to you by Cipla and proudly supported by Ultimag Advanced.
In this powerful episode of Health Matters, host Ryan O’Connor is joined by the insightful Dr. Nompumelelo Zenda — widely known as Dr. Gynae — to unpack the critical yet often misunderstood difference between PMS and PMDD. While PMS is common, PMDD is a severe condition that can lead to intense emotional and psychological distress — including anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.
Too many women suffer in silence, dismissed as “just hormonal.” This conversation challenges that stigma and offers clarity on how to identify, diagnose, and manage PMDD. From symptom tracking and brain chemistry to real treatment options, Dr. Gynae offers expert insight and empathy in equal measure.
If you or someone you love struggles with extreme cycle-related symptoms, this episode is your invitation to understand more — and to know you’re not alone.
Today on Health Matters SA, we’re joined by the inspiring Dr. Nompumelelo Zenda — also known as Dr. Gynae — to unpack the vital but often misunderstood world of hormones. Far beyond reproduction, hormones influence mood, energy, metabolism, and more. Dr. Gynae helps us recognise the signs of imbalance, know when to seek help, and encourages more open, shame-free conversations around women’s hormonal health. Tune in for an empowering deep dive that might just explain what your body’s been trying to tell you.
In this episode of Health Matters, host Ryan O’Connor sits down with Prof. Mike Levin — South Africa’s leading expert in asthma and allergy — to unpack the growing allergy crisis in the country. As head of the Allergy Foundation of South Africa, Prof. Levin shares insights into why allergies like asthma, eczema, food sensitivities, and hives are on the rise, and what can be done to manage them effectively. Discover practical management tips, reliable sources of information, and the patient support resources available to help you or your loved ones live more comfortably. Whether you're dealing with allergies or caring for someone who is, this expert-led conversation is full of valuable advice to help you breathe easier and feel more in control.
True well-being isn’t just about achievingexternal success—it’s about finding harmony and peace within. In this episodeof Health Matters, Ryan O'Connor is joined by wellness expert Kanchana Moodliarto uncover the profound impact meditation can have on both the mind and body.
Together, they’ll address commonmisconceptions about meditation, such as:
Is meditation only for the spirituallyinclined?
Does meditation make you passive ordisengaged?
Why do even seasoned meditators stillexperience stress?
What are the first steps to begin yourmeditation journey?
Join us as we dive into powerful insightsand practical advice on how meditation can bring balance, clarity, and calminto your everyday life. Listen now and start your journey to inner peace!
Your health is the most valuable asset you have! In this episode, we’re diving into simple but impactful ways to boost your well-being—without making major life changes. We’ll cover everything from how to get the most out of your pharmacy visits to making your specialist appointments more effective.
We’re joined by Dr. William Kleynhans, a Medical Advisor at CIPLA with almost 20 years of experience in digital healthcare and AI-driven solutions. He’ll share easy-to-follow tips that can help you take charge of your health and make lasting improvements.
Tune in now and discover small, practical steps toward a healthier, happier you!
#HealthFirst #WellnessJourney #ExpertAdvice #HealthcareTips #InvestInYourHealth
Are your New Year’s resolutions helping or hurting your gut? 🤔🌱 From weight loss and exercise to plant-based eating, some habits can boost digestion—while others might do more harm than good. In this episode, registered dietitian Abigail Da Cruz breaks down the most common gut health mistakes, sneaky habits that sabotage digestion, and simple, sustainable ways to keep your gut happy. Whether you're looking to reset your health goals or build better habits for 2025, this episode is packed with expert advice to set you up for success! 🎙️🥗💤
Hit play and let’s dive in! 🚀
HIV remains a major health challenge in South Africa.
While infections in children have dropped since the early 2000s, around 270,000 children between the ages of 0 and 14 are still living with HIV. Every year, 10,000 new child infections occur, and 2,100 children continue to die from AIDS-related causes*.
To talk more about this, we're joined by Dr Julia Turner - a medical doctor in the role of Senior Technical Adviser for HIV Care and Treatment for Right to Care NGO. She is passionate about training healthcare workers and has provided HIV-related trainings throughout South Africa and many other African countries.
Her areas of interest include paediatric and adult HIV management, HIV resistance, adolescent disclosure, adherence, and programmatic aspects of HIV and other pandemic control.
* Source: https://aidsinfo.unaids.org/
#HIVpreventionstrategies #MothertochildHIVtransmission #HIVandbreastfeeding #HIVtestingforchildren #Antiretroviraltherapybenefits #HIVtreatmentoptions #PaediatricHIVcare #HIVearlydiagnosis #PreventingHIVduringpregnancy #HIVandfamilyplanning #HIVsuppressedviralload #BenefitsofHIVtesting #ReducingHIVrisk #SafebreastfeedingHIV #PlannedpregnancyandHIV #PCRtestingnewborns #RapidHIVtests #ARVsforchildren #HIVmedicationadherence #BestHIVtreatment #StigmaandEducation #HIVstigmareduction #EducatingkidsaboutHIV #ExplainingHIVtochildren #HIVmythsdebunked #UnderstandingHIVtransmission #HIVinschools #HIVdisclosureforkids #SupportingHIVpositivechildren #HIVawarenesscampaigns #PsychologicalimpactofHIV #TreatmentAdvancements #LatestHIVtreatments #NewpaediatricHIVdrugs #HIVdispersibletablets #LongactingHIVinjections #FutureHIVadvancements #HIVdrugresistanceprevention #CombinationHIVpills #HIVcareupdates #InjectableHIVtreatments #InnovationsinHIVcare #UniversalPrecautions #Bloodbornepathogensafety #HIVinschoolspolicies #HIVuniversalprecautions #SafepracticesforHIV #HIVtransmissionfacts #Glovesforwoundcare #Handlingbloodexposure #ReducingschoolHIVfears #HIVandpublichealthsafety #HIVinfectionmyths #LivingwithHIV #LivingnormalwithHIV #HIVpositivechildrensupport #HIVparentingtips #HIVcareeradvice #HIVpositiverelationships #HIVmarriagepossibilities #HIVpositivelifeexpectancy #HealthylifewithHIV #HIVchildmentalhealth #HIVpositivesuccessstories #ResearchandDevelopment #PaediatricHIVadvancements #ARVdruginnovations #LatestHIVbreakthroughs #HIVvaccinedevelopment #HIVandgenetherapy #FutureHIVprevention #NewHIVdrugstimeline #PaediatricARVresearch #LongtermHIVsolutions #HIVpreventioninjections #WhatisHIV #HIVsymptomsinkids #HIVtestinglocations #HIVfactsforfamilies #FreeHIVresources #HIVtreatmentcentres #HIVmedicationcosts #HIVtreatmenteffectiveness #HIVcommunitysupport #HIVeducationprograms #FAQsandMiscellaneous #HIVvsAIDS #HIVFAQsforparents #ChildfriendlyHIVtreatments #HIVmedicationfortoddlers #HIVimmuneboosters #CanHIVpositivemomsbreastfeed #HIVmythsandfacts #HIVfreegenerations #HIVstigmafreecommunity #HIVpostexposurecare #LocalizedCampaignsSouthAfrica #HIVtreatmentSouthAfrica #HIVawarenessinSouthAfrica #PaediatricHIVcareSouthAfrica #FreeHIVtestingSA #BestHIVhospitalsSouthAfrica #MothertochildHIVpreventionSA #HIVcareinSA #HIVeducationSouthAfrica #ARVsforkidsinSA #HIVfreeSAcampaign
In this episode of Health Matters, Ryan O'Connor hosts Dr. Shireen Thomas Stark, a counselling psychologist with over 20 years of experience.
We'll find out about the rise in anxiety and depression globally and locally, the role our modern lifestyles play and how you can cope.
This episode is brought to you by Relicalm.
According to The World Health Organisation, by 2015 the world's population of people aged 60 years and older will reach 22. 1 billion.
The number of persons aged 80 years and older are expected to triple between 2020 and 2050, to 426 million.
On Health Matters Dr. Ade Wentzel will be discussing the benefits of NAD+ supplements, their impact on healthy ageing, and how we start to prepare now to ensure we are healthier in our older years.
It’s that time of year again, where so many of us are walking around sneezing and wheezing with our eyes running! Allergy season is here, and today we’re going to learn more about Allergic Rhinitis -the causes and the cures.
To help with that, we have Dr Corli Lodder back with us. Dr Lodder is the founder of the Allergy and Asthma clinic in George, in the Western Cape. She is a GP with a special interest in allergic diseases, and a member of The SA Allergic Rhinitis Working Group - a focus group of the Allergy Society of SA.
The guest on the latest Health Matters is a highly accomplished and talented rally driver who has made a name for himself in the world of motorsport.
Jon Williams is a 2x Western Province Rally champion, won the World Pirelli Young Drivers Championship in 2009, and has South African colours for Motorsport.
He also works as a precision driver for major car brands in international TV commercials and movies.
Ensuring patients take their medication as prescribed is vital for managing chronic illnesses and improving health outcomes.
To discuss the importance of adherence, the challenges people face and how to overcome these obstacles, we're joined by Dr Craig Nossel co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of Evia Health.
Evia Health use technology, behavioral economics, and data to empower patients to control and improve their health.
The importance of medication adherence (00:00:59) Dr. Nossel discusses the vital role of medication in keeping people well, preventing complications, and reducing healthcare costs.
Challenges in medication adherence (00:02:59) Dr. Nossel highlights various challenges, including forgetfulness, cost, lack of knowledge, side effects, and cultural stigma, affecting medication adherence.
Technology and medication adherence (00:06:39) The discussion touches on the role of technology, including reminders, applications, and data feedback, in improving medication adherence.
Behavioural economics in developing solutions (00:11:19) Dr. Nossel explains how behavioural economics principles, such as loss aversion and hyperbolic discounting, are used to develop solutions for medication adherence.
Role of technology in healthcare delivery (00:15:22) The conversation explores how technology, including packaging, messaging platforms, and AI, supports healthcare delivery and personalised patient care.
Keywords
#podcast, #Health Matters, #Cipla, #Dr. Craig Nossel, #Evia Health, #medication adherence, #prescribed medication, #chronic illnesses, #health outcomes, #financial impact, #non-adherence, #medication regimen, #technology, #behavioral economics, #healthcare professionals, #artificial intelligence, #healthcare solutions, #medical advice, #medication schedule, #chronic medication, #epilepsy, #technology, #artificial intelligence, #healthcare professionals, #medication packaging, #personalized support, #chronic conditions, #artificial intelligence, #medication adherence patterns, #Cipla, #healthcare solutions, #medical advice, #prescribed medication regimens
A popular topic on Health Matters is gut health.
Joining again is registered dietitian, Abigail
Da Cruz to look at how your gut also impacts on your mental health.
Gut health is a vast topic that we cover so often on
Health Matters, simply because it is so crucial to so many aspects of our well-being. Today however we ask, what are we doing wrong when it comes to gut
health?
To help answer this and to set us right is registered dietitian,
Abigail Da Cruz and she will share the most common
gut health mistakes she sees patients make and will give you guidance on what to do instead.