Health Articles
Plain-language health articles from NeoHealth. Written and reviewed by Drs Chellan and Lakay, focused on conditions we see most often at the practice. Every article carries a named author with credentials, references where they matter, and a date so you know how current it is.
Flu 2026 in George: Symptoms, Vaccine, and When to See a GP
South Africa's 2026 flu season started early. Symptoms, vaccination, the 48-hour treatment window, and when to book at NeoHealth George.
High Blood Pressure: A South African Guide
How high blood pressure is diagnosed and treated in South Africa. What your readings mean, and the lifestyle and medication steps that work.
Prediabetes: What It Means, Why It Matters, and What To Do Next
Understand prediabetes diagnosis, causes, and treatment in a South African context. Learn what your results mean and the steps to prevent type 2 diabetes.
Newly Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes: What to Expect in the First Six Months
A calm, practical guide for adults newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in South Africa. What to expect, what to do, and how to work with your GP.
Cervical Screening Explained: A Guide for Women in George and the Garden Route
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. The best current test for screening is the HPV test (not the older Pap smear alone), recommended for most women from age 25 every 5 to 10 years.
Choosing Contraception: A South African Guide for Women in George and the Garden Route
The best contraceptive is the one a woman will actually use consistently. The most effective options (over 99% effective with typical use) are the IUD (copper or hormonal), the implant, and sterilisation.
IUDs Explained: A Plain-Language Guide for Women in George and the Garden Route
IUDs are among the most effective reversible contraceptives, over 99% effective, lasting 3 to 10 years, fitted and removed in about 15 minutes. Dr Claudia Lakay fits both copper and hormonal IUDs in-rooms at NeoHealth in George.
Perimenopause, Menopause & MHT: A 2026 Guide for Women in George and the Garden Route
Menopause is the permanent end of menstrual periods, with a mean age of 51.4 years. The transition before it, perimenopause, typically lasts 4 to 8 years, and causes hot flushes, sleep problems, mood changes, and cognitive symptoms in most women.
PCOS Explained: A Guide for Women in George and the Garden Route
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects around 1 in 8 women globally and is the most common hormonal condition in women of reproductive age. Dr Claudia Lakay offers PCOS assessment and management at NeoHealth in George.
STI Testing in George: A Confidential, Evidence-Based Guide
Most STIs cause no symptoms at all. Routine screening, not waiting for symptoms, is how infections are found. NeoHealth offers confidential, comprehensive STI testing in George Central, serving the Garden Route.
PEP: HIV Post-Exposure Prophylaxis
A guide to post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV in South Africa. The 72-hour window, the 28-day course, tests, and transition to PrEP.
RSV and Bronchiolitis: What Parents Need to Know This Winter
The 2026 RSV season has started in South Africa. What bronchiolitis is, how to care for your baby at home, red flags for urgent care, and the new prevention options now in private pharmacies.
Why Your Doctor Sometimes Says No to Antibiotics: Protecting Children from Superbugs
Most childhood colds, coughs, and sore throats don't need antibiotics. When they do, when they don't, and why overuse matters in SA.
Vaccines in 2026: Catch-Up Schedules, New Shots and African Vaccination Week
What's new in South African childhood vaccines for 2026, how to catch up missed doses at any age, and what African Vaccination Week means for your family.
The Diabetes Epidemic in South Africa: What You Need to Know
Diabetes affects millions of South Africans, many without knowing it. Learn the warning signs, risk factors, screening options, and practical steps to protect yourself.
Antenatal Care: Your Pregnancy Journey at NeoHealth
Comprehensive antenatal care is essential for a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery. Here is what to expect at each stage of your pregnancy journey with NeoHealth.
PrEP: HIV Prevention Explained
A clinical guide to pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV in South Africa. What PrEP is, who it is for, and what starting PrEP involves.
Men's Health: Why Regular Check-ups Matter
Men are statistically less likely to visit a doctor than women, yet early detection of conditions like cardiovascular disease and prostate cancer can be lifesaving.
Skin Lesion Removal and Minor Procedures
Many skin lesions such as moles, warts, and cysts can be safely removed in a quick in-office procedure. Learn when to seek medical advice and what to expect.
Understanding Your Blood Pressure Numbers
Blood pressure readings can seem confusing, but understanding your numbers is one of the most important steps you can take toward protecting your heart health.
Depression: A Clinical Guide for South Africans
A clinical guide to depression in South Africa. How it presents, how it is diagnosed, and what evidence-based treatment involves.
IV Vitamin Therapy: Indications and What to Expect
IV vitamin therapy delivers essential nutrients directly into your bloodstream for maximum absorption. Learn about the benefits, who it helps, and what to expect at NeoHealth.
Living With HIV: Long-term Care and U=U
Living well with HIV in the long term. First-line ART, viral suppression and U=U, monitoring, and managing comorbidities with your GP.
Anxiety: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
A clinical guide to anxiety disorders in South Africa. GAD, panic disorder, and social anxiety, and what evidence-based treatment looks like.
HIV in Pregnancy: Preventing Mother-to-Child Transmission
HIV in pregnancy and preventing mother-to-child transmission. ART in pregnancy and breastfeeding, infant prophylaxis, and U=U at conception.
HIV Testing: A Complete Guide
A clear guide to HIV testing and treatment in South Africa. Types of tests, window periods, what results mean, and starting ART.