This ‘Movember’, we’re encouraging men to take a proactive approach to their health by making use of the various annual tests and screenings available. Regular health checkups and screenings help to detect potential health risks early and can lead to timely intervention for life-threatening conditions and a higher recovery rate.

Take advantage of the below screenings and tests that help with early detection of the following health conditions:

Cardiovascular disease (CVD)

CVD, also known as heart disease, refers to a group of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, and is a leading cause of heart attack and stroke among men.

A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can help prevent CVD, while regular cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure screenings can identify risks early.

Our preventative care benefit includes one wellness screening (blood pressure, glucose, etc.) per year for each beneficiary aged 21 and over – on all options, and a full cholesterol test (lipogram) every 5 years, for beneficiaries aged 20 and over on BonComprehensive, BonComplete, BonClassic, Standard, and Standard Select.

Type 2 diabetes

Elevated blood sugar often goes unnoticed until tested, and if left untreated, it can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other complications. Those most at risk include people with a family history of diabetes, those who are overweight, or those with high cholesterol or high blood pressure.

A blood glucose test is part of the annual wellness screening. We also cover chronic medicine for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes as a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) on all options.

Mental health

Mental illnesses can affect individuals of any age, race, gender, or socioeconomic status. Identifying and understanding mental illnesses can help you better manage your mental health.

Signs and symptoms to look out for include prolonged sadness, social withdrawal, extreme mood swings, significant tiredness, low energy or problems sleeping, loss of interest in activities you previously enjoyed, significant increase or decrease in your appetite, thoughts of self-harm or suicide, and substance abuse. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is best to seek professional help.

Our Mental Health Programme is offered across all plans, and we cover depression as a chronic condition on all options. We also offer access to a mental health digital platform, October Health, available through the Bonitas app, giving members easy access to expert help, mental health information, and community support.

Prostate cancer

On average, 1 in 8 men is diagnosed with prostate cancer, a slow-growing disease that typically appears later in life. Signs usually include difficulty passing urine, enlarged lymph nodes, or blood in the urine. Early detection improves the chances of a positive outcome.

Annual tests are advised for men from age 50, or from age 40 if there is a family history of prostate or breast cancer.

Our preventative care benefit includes 1 annual prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test for men between the ages of 55 and 69, on all options except BonStart and BonStart Plus.

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is more common in men aged 15 to 35 and is treatable when detected early. Look out for a painless lump or swelling of the testis, or a dull ache or heaviness in the scrotum or lower abdomen.

Monthly self-examinations are recommended for early detection.

Colon cancer

If there is a family history of colon cancer, it is recommended to have your first colonoscopy at age 40. If there’s no family history, you should have it at age 50, then every 5-10 years based on your risk. If more than one first-degree relative has developed colon cancer, you should go every 3-5 years.

Be aware of sudden changes in bowel habits, blood in stools, or persistent bloating.

Our preventative care benefit includes 1 annual stool test for colon cancer per beneficiary between ages 45 and 75.

Skin cancer

Men over 40 who spend a lot of time in the sun (e.g., golfers, cricketers, farmers, fishermen, etc.) should regularly look out for skin changes, like new or larger moles. Consult a doctor or dermatologist if you notice any changes.

When detected and removed early, skin cancer has a high recovery rate.

Eye health

To maintain good vision, we recommend an eyesight test every five years in your 20s and 30s, every two years in your 40s, and annually from age 50 onwards.

The Scheme covers 1 eye test per beneficiary on all options, except hospital plans, every year or every 2 years, depending on your plan. For savings options, the eye test will be paid from your available medical savings balance.

These screenings are here to help you stay on top of your health. Early detection is key, so don’t wait – book your annual tests and screenings and make the most of your preventative care benefits!

To learn more about your membership benefits, please visit the Member Information Hub on our website at www.bonitas.co.za/member-information. There’s no need to log in, just info at the click of a button.