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This Men’s Health Month, health experts are warning that many people may be living with early-stage heart, kidney and metabolic conditions without knowing it.
New international research shows that early heart dysfunction often goes undiagnosed. This is a worrying reality in South Africa, where hypertension, diabetes and kidney disease are already widespread.
High blood pressure affects nearly one in three South African adults, yet many people are either unaware of their condition or do not have it adequately controlled. This creates a ripple effect, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure and diabetes-related complications.
Men may be especially vulnerable, as they are often less likely to go for routine health checks. Health experts say this reluctance to screen can delay diagnosis and treatment, allowing preventable conditions to become more serious over time.
In South Africa, screening is more accessible than many people realise.
“Blood pressure checks are routinely available at pharmacies, clinics and GP practices,” Singels said.
“Blood glucose and kidney function tests can be done through a simple blood test at public clinics or private laboratories. Many medical schemes also cover annual wellness screenings, while public sector clinics offer these services at low or no cost.”
She said doctors were also changing the way they approach treatment by looking beyond one health problem at a time.
“Rather than focusing on a single issue, like high blood pressure alone, healthcare providers are now targeting the broader cardiometabolic risk profile,” she explained.
“This means addressing blood pressure, cholesterol, kidney health and lifestyle factors together to reduce the overall risk of serious complications.”
According to health experts, detecting these conditions early can greatly reduce the risk of serious complications. Small and consistent lifestyle changes can also have a meaningful impact on long-term health.
Singels recommends that people control their blood pressure, manage blood sugar levels through a diabetic-friendly diet, reduce salt intake, maintain a healthy weight, stay physically active, limit alcohol consumption and avoid tobacco.
Experts say men should not wait until they feel ill before seeking medical advice. Regular screening remains one of the most effective ways to detect health risks early and prevent serious complications.
