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Men’s Health
Life on the Left Side – Living with an Ostomy Bag
This World Ostomy Day, Gary Goldie shares his experience candidly in a guide he wrote ‘Life on the Left Side – Living with an Ostomy Bag’. In 2017, a jump over a garden wall led to an ankle injury, which led to a routine check-up, which led to the discovery of an aggressive cancer nobody had any symptoms of. What followed was chemo, radiation, a surgery with a coin-flip outcome, and a permanent ostomy bag that changed the rest of his life. His guide contains helpful tips on how to navigate life as an ostomate…
Read morePublished: 6 October 2026
Updated: 6 October 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, About Cancer, Advocacy, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, CANSA Help Desk, CANSA Highlights, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Stories of Hope, Women's Health
A Serious Illness can feel Unlikely until it Changes Everything
Most of us plan around the life we expect to live. We plan for the home we want to own, our children’s education, career ambitions, holidays and retirement. What we are less likely to plan for is cancer, a heart attack, stroke or another serious illness. When you’re healthy, working and getting on with life, it’s easy to think: “It won’t happen to me.” And even when we do think about serious illness, another assumption can offer reassurance: “I have medical aid, so I’m covered.” But are either of those assumptions enough to build your financial future around? CANSA and Old Mutual Personal Finance have joined forces to help South Africans better understand the wider financial impact of severe illness and encourage important conversations about financial preparedness before they become urgent…
Read morePublished: 5 October 2026
Updated: 5 October 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Our Cause Related Marketing Partners, Women's Health
CANSA and Old Mutual Personal Finance Partner to Strengthen Conversations around Severe Illness & Financial Preparedness
CANSA and Old Mutual Personal Finance have joined forces to help South Africans better understand the wider financial impact of severe illness and encourage important conversations about financial preparedness before they become urgent. During the campaign period, Old Mutual Personal Finance will donate R100 to CANSA for every qualifying new Severe Illness policy taken up, up to a total contribution of R100,000. The contribution forms part of Old Mutual Personal Finance’s broader support of CANSA and the work it does for people and communities affected by cancer…
Read morePublished: 5 October 2026
Updated: 5 October 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, CANSA Highlights, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Our Cause Related Marketing Partners, Women's Health
What Happens During a Hair Restoration Consultation with Alvi Armani?
Through a new partnership between Alvi Armani South Africa and CANSA, survivors now have access to medically guided hair restoration treatments and medications that supports both their confidence and emotional well-being. The initiative offers complimentary consultations and assessments for cancer survivors, providing safe, evidence-based treatments that help restore a sense of normalcy…
Read morePublished: 30 September 2026
Updated: 30 September 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, CANSA Highlights, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health
Women’s Hair Recovery After Cancer: A New Chapter
Through a new partnership between Alvi Armani South Africa and CANSA, survivors now have access to medically guided hair restoration treatments and medications that supports both their confidence and emotional well-being. The initiative offers complimentary consultations and assessments for cancer survivors, providing safe, evidence-based treatments that help restore a sense of normalcy…
Read morePublished: 28 September 2026
Updated: 30 September 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health
CANSA Monthly Virtual Support Group – 29 September 2026 (11 00 to 13 00)
We understand how vital support is when facing or recovering from cancer. Our virtual group offers a safe and caring space to connect with others who truly understand what you’re going through. This group is open to cancer patients and those in remission, as well as their loved ones and caregivers…
Read morePublished: 27 September 2026
Updated: 30 September 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health
CANSA & Alvi Armani Partnership Offers Hair Restoration Support for Cancer Survivors
CANSA is partnering with Alvi Armani – their restorative programme helps post-cancer treatment patients regain hair, confidence, and quality of life after facing cancer… the initiative will offer CANSA-affiliated patients in recovery, access to complimentary, in-depth, and personalised consultations. Complete the form in the post to indicate your interest…
Read morePublished: 20 September 2026
Updated: 30 September 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Media Releases & News, Men's Health, Our Cause Related Marketing Partners, Our Corporate Social Investment Partners, Women's Health
World Lymphoma Awareness Day: No One Should have to Navigate Lymphoma Alone
This World Lymphoma Awareness Day, observed annually on 15 September, the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) is joining the global call to ensure that no person affected by lymphoma has to navigate their diagnosis, treatment and recovery alone. Patient navigation, practical support and early diagnosis are CANSA’s focus as South Africa joins the global lymphoma awareness campaign on 15 September 2026…
Read morePublished: 11 September 2026
Updated: 11 September 2026
Categories: Advocacy, CANSA Highlights, I have Cancer, Media Releases & News, Men's Health, Types of cancer, Women's Health
CANSA Men’s Virtual Support Group (MS Teams) 23 September 2026 – 18 00 to 19 00
Join our monthly online Men’s Support Group with our guest speaker Ismail Abbas Sardiwalla. Topic: My Stage 4 Cancer Survival Experience…
Read morePublished: 10 September 2026
Updated: 28 September 2026
Categories: I have Cancer, Men's Health, Types of cancer
Webinar SANCD Alliance – Patient Perspective – 9 September 2026
You are invited to attend an SANCD Alliance webinar hosted by the Heart and Stroke Foundation. CANSA is a member of the SANCD Alliance. Topic: Patient Perspective…
Read morePublished: 9 September 2026
Updated: 11 September 2026
Categories: Advocacy, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health
Free Webinar with StratFin – Cancer and Medical Tax Back – What You Need to Know
Register for this Stratfin webinar: 13 October 2026 – a cancer diagnosis can bring significant medical and financial challenges. Many patients and families are unaware that they may qualify for SARS medical tax relief on certain qualifying expenses – knowledge that could help ease the financial burden of cancer care…
Read morePublished: 8 September 2026
Updated: 15 September 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, CANSA Highlights, CANSA Webinars, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health
Podcast: On the CANSA Couch – Real Men Check In – Men’s Health Matters
In this episode of On the CANSA Couch, we’re shining the spotlight on something that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves — men’s health. We’re talking about prostate cancer, testicular cancer, early detection and one of South Africa’s most iconic awareness events — the Hollard Daredevil Run…
Read morePublished: 20 August 2026
Updated: 21 August 2026
Categories: CANSA Highlights, I have Cancer, Men's Health, On the CANSA Couch Podcasts, Types of cancer
Podcast: On the CANSA Couch – Alcohol and Cancer – the Link Everyone Should Know
Join On the CANSA Couch listeners as we discuss the link between alcohol and cancer, that many people may not be aware of. In fact, alcohol has been classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning there’s strong scientific evidence that it causes cancer in humans. Professor Susan Goldstein explains the scientific evidence behind classifying alcohol as a Group 1 carcinogen…
Read morePublished: 21 July 2026
Updated: 21 July 2026
Categories: Balanced Lifestyle, CANSA Highlights, CANSA on the Move for the Youth, Men's Health, No Alcohol, On the CANSA Couch Podcasts, Women's Health
CANSA Highlights Human Rights and Cancer in the Workplace
As South Africa marks Workers’ Day, CANSA is encouraging employers, managers, HR teams, employees, and caregivers to recognise that cancer in the workplace is not only a health issue, but also a matter of fairness and practical support.
Read morePublished: 2 July 2026
Updated: 3 July 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Advocacy, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, CANSA Highlights, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Media Releases & News, Men's Health, Women's Health, Work and Cancer
Heroes in Purple Speedos Raise R1 200 000 – Hollard Daredevil Run Hands Over Funds Raised & Launches 2026 Campaign
CANSA is thankful to Hollard for donating R1 200 000 to CANSA and the Prostate Cancer Foundation, with every rand raised by the purple speedo-clad heroes who took part in the 2025 Daredevil Run. At the same event, the 2026 campaign was officially launched and South African men will be called upon to lace up, strip down and do it all again – entries open on Ticketpro on 1st July 2026…
Read morePublished: 29 June 2026
Updated: 3 August 2026
Categories: CANSA on the Move for the Youth, Fundraising Events & Projects, Media Releases & News, Men's Health
Join us on the October Health App for a Discussion around ‘Life after Cancer’ (2 June) at 5PM
5PM 2 June 2026 – in honour of International Cancer Survivors Day, Olivia Curlewis shares her deeply personal journey of surviving Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma, a rare cancer of the sinus cavity. After extensive facial surgery and the emotional, physical, and mental challenges that followed, Olivia brings a powerful perspective on courage, identity, healing, and life beyond diagnosis. As a registered nurse and someone celebrating 30 years with CANSA, Olivia will also share what her journey has taught her about hope, support, education, and walking alongside others affected by cancer. Marcelle D’Allende, transformation & change manager and life coach, also shares her experience as a lung cancer Survivor…
Read morePublished: 2 June 2026
Updated: 18 June 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health
Is Vaping Safer than Smoking? Why this May Not be the Case…
It makes sense that vaping is seen as the so-called healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes, as vaping may reduce exposure to some of the toxic by-products of burning tobacco. However, vaping introduces its own mix of chemicals, ultra-fine particles, and nicotine delivery systems that affect the lungs, heart, and brain in ways researchers are still trying to fully understand. Health experts are also wary of how vaping products are marketed. While they’re often presented as a “safer” option, current research links vaping to lung irritation, cardiovascular strain, chest pain, oral health issues, and exposure to chemicals associated with cancer risk…
Read morePublished: 26 May 2026
Updated: 2 July 2026
Categories: Advocacy, CANSA on the Move for the Youth, Men's Health, No-Tobacco Campaign, Women's Health
Current Status Update: Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill (2022)
As of now, the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill remains under consideration in Parliament. The ongoing discussions and evaluations reflect the importance of this legislation in shaping the future of tobacco control in South Africa. As the Bill continues to navigate the legislative process, its potential impact on public health and the well-being of South Africans remains a topic of great interest and importance…
Read morePublished: 26 May 2026
Updated: 15 June 2026
Categories: CANSA on the Move for the Youth, Men's Health, No-Tobacco Campaign, Women's Health
CANSA Marks Cancer Survivors’ Month by Focusing on Life Beyond Treatment
June is recognised globally as International Cancer Survivors Month which provides the opportunity to recognise cancer survivors living in South Africa and to highlight the often-overlooked emotional, physical, financial and practical realities that can continue long after diagnosis and treatment. For many people, the end of active treatment is not the end of the impact that cancer has had on their lives. Survivors may continue to live with fatigue, anxiety, fear of recurrence, body image changes, relationship strain, financial pressure, workplace challenges, long-term side effects and the emotional impact of having faced a life-threatening illness. This is why survivor support must be seen as an essential part of cancer care…
Read morePublished: 25 May 2026
Updated: 25 May 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Advocacy, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, CANSA - Who We Are, CANSA Bedfordview Care Centre, CANSA Bloemfontein Care Centre, CANSA Cape Metro Care Centre, CANSA Durban Care Centre, CANSA East London Care Centre, CANSA George Care Centre, CANSA Gqeberha Care Centre, CANSA Highlights, CANSA Kimberley Virtual Care Centre, CANSA Limpopo: Polokwane Care Centre, CANSA Lowveld Care Centre, CANSA on the Move for the Youth, CANSA Paarl Care Centre, CANSA Pretoria Care Centre, CANSA Roodepoort Satellite Care Centre, CANSA Rustenburg Care Centre, CANSA Springbok Virtual Care Centre, I have Cancer, Media Releases & News, Men's Health, Women's Health, Work and Cancer
Podcast: On the CANSA Couch – Healthy Choices, Trusted Partnerships & Smarter Eating
For this podcast we are joined by one of CANSA’s longest-standing partners, Southern Oil, the manufacturers of the B-well range — a brand many South Africans know and trust. B-well is the first mayonnaise range to receive the CANSA Smart Choice Seal in the edible category. The endorsement applies to B-Well Original Tangy Canola Mayonnaise and B-Well Thick & Creamy Canola Mayonnaise. The products are manufactured by Southern Oil, a 30-year strong South African producer of canola and other plant-based oils, under its B-Well brand. This expands the range of B-Well products already carrying the CANSA Smart Choice Seal, which includes several canola seed oils and cooking sprays. We discuss how can products like B-well oils and mayonnaise be used in simple, everyday meals…
Read morePublished: 15 May 2026
Updated: 20 May 2026
Categories: Balanced Lifestyle, CANSA on the Move for the Youth, CANSA Seal of Recognition - Edible Consumer Goods Category, Dietary Tips, Men's Health, On the CANSA Couch Podcasts, Women's Health
CANSA to Benefit from Sale of Matus’ Pink Products in May 2026
May promo – Matus will donate 10% of the profit on sales of its pink products to CANSA in support of its Women’s Health campaign. Products available at Matus stores…
Read morePublished: 8 May 2026
Updated: 11 May 2026
Categories: Fundraising Events & Projects, Men's Health, Our Cause Related Marketing Partners, Women's Health
