The event featured Prof. Carol Benn, one of South Africa’s leading experts in women’s health, who shared valuable insights into important health issues facing women and encouraged attendees to take a more informed and proactive approach to their wellbeing.
Together with PinkDrive, the event also highlighted the importance of creating greater awareness around women’s health and encouraging conversations that can help women make informed decisions about their health.
Key takeaways
Prof. Benn emphasised the importance of knowing your body and paying attention to changes that may require further investigation. She encouraged women to take responsibility for their health and not to ignore persistent symptoms, even if an initial examination or screening does not identify a problem.
Her message was clear: “You can’t prevent cancer, but you can decrease your cancer risk.” She highlighted the importance of screening, regular health checks and lifestyle measures, including exercise, as part of a proactive approach to health.
She also stressed the need for informed, individualised healthcare, cautioning against taking medication or supplements simply because they work for someone else. “Each one of us is different. Our bodies are different,” she said, highlighting the importance of understanding what is appropriate for your own health and seeking guidance from a healthcare professional.
Another key message was the importance of coordinated care. Prof. Benn highlighted the need for healthcare practitioners to communicate with one another and work together to ensure patients receive appropriate, joined-up care.
Through these discussions, the event reinforced the importance of health awareness, prevention and informed decision-making, while encouraging women to take an active role in their own wellbeing.
Following the session, attendees were encouraged to visit the PinkDrive bus for breast checks, providing an opportunity to put the morning’s message of awareness and proactive healthcare into practice.
Special thanks
GWII extends its sincere thanks to Prof. Carol Benn for sharing her knowledge and expertise, and to everyone who attended and contributed to the morning.
A special thank you also goes to the event sponsors, Absa, Leppard and Sintelum, and Glasfit Group, our photography and water sponsor, as well as our logistical sponsors, FAnews and Santam Specialist Solutions, whose involvement helped make the event possible.
By bringing women together to talk openly about health, wellbeing and prevention, GWII continues to create spaces where women can connect, learn and inspire one another.
