Chronic disease is no longer a future health concern – it is one of the biggest threats to South Africans’ health today. As non-communicable diseases (NCDs) continue to rise globally, new data from Bestmed Medical Scheme shows just how widespread the burden has become among its own members, reinforcing the urgent need for prevention and early intervention.
Globally, non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer and chronic respiratory diseases account for around 74% of all deaths. In South Africa, hypertension – one of the leading risk factors for cardiovascular disease – affects nearly 30% of adults, yet awareness, treatment and control rates remain alarmingly low.
Bestmed’s own member data paints a similarly concerning picture. Among members registered on its chronic disease programme:
- 42% are living with at least one chronic condition
- 24.6% are living with two chronic conditions
- 16.6% with three or more chronic conditions
According to Dr Lee Moses, Medical Advisor: Advisory Risk and Quality Management at Bestmed Medical Scheme, these figures demonstrate that chronic illness rarely exists in isolation and highlight why prevention must become a greater healthcare priority.
“Too often, healthcare begins once someone is already ill. Preventive care shifts that focus by identifying health risks early, enabling people to make informed lifestyle changes before conditions develop or become more serious. It is one of the most important investments people can make in their long-term health and wellbeing.”
Bestmed’s preventative screening programme is already demonstrating the value of early detection. Between January and June 2026, 6,617 members completed lifestyle screenings, with the results identifying overweight, physical inactivity and hypertension as the three most common health risks.
The Scheme’s chronic disease expenditure reflects these findings. Hypertension accounts for 21% of chronic disease-related costs, followed by diabetes at 14% and hyperlipidaemia at 8% – three of the most prevalent chronic conditions affecting South Africans.
While these findings highlight the growing burden of chronic disease, they also demonstrate that many of the underlying risk factors can be identified and addressed before they progress into more serious illness.
“Healthy lifestyle habits remain one of the most effective ways to prevent and manage chronic disease,” says Dr Moses. “Simple changes such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, avoiding tobacco products and limiting alcohol consumption can significantly reduce an individual’s risk while improving overall quality of life.”
Routine health screenings, vaccinations and regular medical check-ups also play a critical role in detecting health risks before symptoms appear. Early diagnosis enables earlier treatment, helping to reduce complications, prevent premature death and improve long-term health outcomes. Compliance with prescribed treatment is also a crucial aspect in the management of chronic condition.
For people already living with chronic conditions, preventive care remains equally important. Ongoing monitoring enables healthcare professionals to assess treatment effectiveness, adjust medication where necessary and detect complications early. This proactive approach can reduce hospital admissions, improve symptom control and help individuals maintain their independence and quality of life.
Beyond the benefits for individuals, prevention also reduces pressure on South Africa’s healthcare system by lowering the need for costly emergency interventions and long-term hospital care.
“Preventive care is not simply about preventing disease – it is about helping people live longer, healthier and more productive lives,” concludes Dr Moses. “Regular health assessments, screenings and informed lifestyle choices can dramatically reduce the impact of chronic illness, while also creating a more sustainable healthcare system for everyone.”
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