Dr December Mpanza (left) and Dr Takshita Sookan-Kassie.UKZN Hosts Insightful Webinar on Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention
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The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s College of Health Sciences, led by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Busi Ncama, recently organised a comprehensive webinar focused on heart disease and stroke awareness.
The session featured discussions by experts in cardiology, neurology, occupational therapy, and biokinetics, who shared critical insights on prevention, early detection, and management strategies.
Chaired by Mr Luther Monareng, an Occupational Therapy lecturer and PhD candidate, the webinar covered key topics such as identifying early warning signs, latest treatment advances, and the importance of proactive prevention to improve heart and brain health.
Dr Vinod Patel, Head of Neurology at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, highlighted the risks and symptoms of stroke, noting that sudden numbness, confusion, and trouble with vision or balance are crucial indicators. He emphasised the need for lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, controlling diabetes, and regular physical activity to lower stroke risks.
Dr December Mpanza, an Occupational Therapist who also serves as Academic Leader for Occupational Therapy at UKZN, explained the role of rehabilitation in heart disease and stroke recovery. He outlined occupational therapy’s personalised, activity-focused approach, helping patients regain essential skills and improve quality of life.
Dr Takshita Sookan-Kassie, a senior lecturer in Biokinetics, emphasised the “exercise as medicine” approach, showing how physical activity reduces risks for diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension. She discussed the significant impact of consistent exercise on managing blood pressure, improving insulin sensitivity, and enhancing cardiovascular health. Exercise can also be used in the management of these conditions to improve quality of life and activities of daily living.
This webinar underscored UKZN’s commitment to community health education, equipping attendees with valuable knowledge to protect their heart and brain health through informed lifestyle choices and preventive care.
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photographs: Supplied