Dr Siyabonga Dlamini graduated with a PhD in Public Health for his study on lung cancer.Raising Awareness of Lung Cancer
Research on an intervention to increase awareness of lung cancer, its symptoms, risk factors, treatment options, and the importance of seeking early help earned Dr Siyabonga B Dlamini a PhD in Public Health.
The lecturer in the Discipline of Public Health Medicine and Master of Public Health programme co-ordinator at UKZN said that he is the first in his family to achieve this milestone, adding that he ‘feels blessed to inspire the next generation on what is possible.’ He expressed his commitment to the field of cancer research, particularly cancer epidemiology.
Supervised by Professors Themba Ginindza and Benn Sartorius, the intervention Dlamini tested increased awareness of lung cancer among the participants, along with improved recognition of its symptoms. There was a greater willingness to undergo lung cancer screening, even if these services had to be paid for. Smokers, especially heavy smokers, reported reduced daily and weekly consumption of cigarettes.
Dlamini said that the challenges he faced included balancing his studies with raising a young family. He highlighted the importance of communication with one’s partner in managing these responsibilities. He also navigated a period of limited communication with one of his supervisors, who relocated overseas. Fortunately, the New Generation of Academics Programme (nGAP) programme provided crucial support by arranging a critical reader to assist.
Dlamini’s association with UKZN dates back to 1999. He studied for his Masters in Public Health at the University and, after a brief departure, returned as an nGAP lecturer.
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini