NIGHT FALL

South Africa has a high number of deaths from non-communicable diseases, which are largely linked to diet and lifestyle. Under particular scrutiny are the so-called ultra-processed foods, such as soft drinks, potato chips, chocolate and sweetened breakfast cereals. Evidence is mounting of their role in the development of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancers and chronic lung illnesses.

There are several reasons why consumption of ultra-processed food is on the rise. Industrialisation of food systems, technological change and globalisation all play a role. Another frequently cited reason is the growth of transnational food corporations in countries with inadequate policies to protect nutrition.

Guest on the line: Melvi Todd-PhD candidate (Food Science), Stellenbosch University

Antibiotic resistance has taken a back seat recently because of the more obvious threat of Covid -19. But superbugs becoming resistant to drugs aren’t something the world can afford to forget, as studies have predicted that in around 30 years antibiotic resistance will kill more people worldwide than cancer.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the top ten threats to global health today, driven by the misuse or overuse of antimicrobials such as antibiotics. However, its seriousness has been greatly overshadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Antimicrobial resistance occurs when infection-causing bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites build up immunity to the medications intended to kill them and continue to multiply. While antimicrobial medications are important to fight infections and reduce mortality rates, antimicrobial resistance increases naturally when the medication is used, misused, or taken unnecessarily - adding to the already problematic global plight.

Guest on the line -Dr Ramokone Maphoto –Clinical Virologist

Most people suffering from sexual dysfunctions see it as a sign of weakness and shame and are discouraged by family to seek help.

But it isn’t surprising that there is no data because there is a huge stigma surrounding the discussion of sex itself. Most people suffering from sexual dysfunctions see it as a sign of weakness and shame and are discouraged by family and society’s stigma to seek help.

Guest on the line: Dr. Ramlachan - is the president of the

African Society for Sexual Medicine (ASSM).

Cybercrime and the risk it poses to companies have escalated massively over the past 24 months — putting the most valuable asset of a company, its data, at increased risk.

Because of the rapidly changing cyber environment and the fact that companies are fast-tracking digital transformation, predicting the right cyber risk management approach for your organization is now more crucial than ever.

Guest on the line: AVeS Cyber Security, Group CEO Charl Ueckermann

The month of November has become synonymous with men’s health through the establishment of International Men’s Day hosted annually on 19th November. The cause was further highlighted by the month-long Movember campaign which was grown and groomed through the local NPO, the Men’s Foundation under license agreement since 2015. Having become a renowned feature on South African men’s upper lips over the past decade, the global Movember Foundation made the decision to no longer run a dedicated campaign in South Africa as of 2021.

Guest on the line CEO & Founder of the Men’s Foundation, Garron Gsell

South Africans wish to see men and boys change their violent behaviour towards women and girls to stem the worsening tide of male violence against females in the country.

There have been numerous interventions – policies, programmes, campaigns – by government, civil society and the private sector to address this scourge. But, these efforts are failing as the problem is getting worse.

Guest on the line: Solly Moeng - MD: DonValley Reputation Managers

The current load-shedding is having an adverse impact on leaners and students at this critical time of the academic year. The advent of COVID-19 and the restrictions imposed as a result thereof have already had an adverse impact on teaching and learning. Students, learners and their teachers have had to adopt extra-ordinary measures and improvise to cope with the impact of COVID-19. This was based on the understanding that COVID-19 is a national disaster partly beyond the control of anyone.

Guest on the line: Basil Manuel - Executive Director Naptosa

Guest on the line: Simon O’Toole, Digital Marketing Specialist at The TEFL Academy

How does the pressure of being a man in modern society impact men?

Guest on the line: Solly Moeng -MD: DonValley Reputation Managers

Engen has partnered with the Disability Economic Empowerment Trust (DEET) to launch a training programme for people with disabilities that will assist them with all the requirements and skills required to pass their driver’s license and enter the job market.

Engen and the DEET have worked together since 2019 on initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life of persons with disabilities through the equalization of opportunities, poverty reduction, and promotion of social inclusion.

Guest on the line: CEO of the Disability Economic Empowerment Trust, Thabiso Phetuka