The growing burden of chronic diseases among South African women

Abstract

Most discussions on women’s health in South Africa have focused on two interconnected areas, i.e. sexual and reproductive morbidity and mortality and HIV/AIDS.1 This is not surprising, given the extent of these problems and the harmful effects they continue to have on so many women’s lives. However, it is important that they are placed in the context of broader changes in South African life and the additional health hazards these developments may pose for women.