Women’s health in South Africa is too often reduced to reproductive care. While pregnancy and maternal health are critical, they represent only a small slice of the broader health picture. Increasingly, experts warn that women face unique risks from non-communicable diseases, mental health challenges, and autoimmune conditions—issues that are seldom talked about, yet impact millions of lives.
South Africa has some of the highest obesity rates in the world, and women are disproportionately affected: nearly two-thirds of South African women are overweight or obese. This raises the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Diabetes already affects 4.2 million South Africans and is projected to climb to 7.4 million by 2045[i]. It is now the leading cause of death among women in the country. Meanwhile, cardiovascular disease claims around 225 South African lives every day, with women between 35 and 59 at especially high risk.[ii]
“Heart disease has long been seen as a ‘man’s problem’—but in South Africa it’s killing more women than we realise,” says Tania Joffe, Founder of Unu Health. “The truth is, women’s symptoms are often under-recognised, misdiagnosed, or dismissed, which makes awareness absolutely crucial.”
Globally, women are twice as likely as men to experience depression and anxiety. In South Africa, studies show that as many as 40% of women over 40 report psychological distress, often linked to chronic illness, poverty, or caregiving burdens.[iii]
The perinatal period is especially vulnerable: between 16% and 50%[iv] of new mother’s experience depression or anxiety, and up to 10% face an elevated risk of suicide. Despite this, access to mental health support remains limited, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
“Women carry the invisible weight of their families and communities,” explains Joffe. “Mental health is health—yet too often, it’s treated as secondary. By normalising conversations around depression and anxiety, we can prevent crises before they escalate.”
Autoimmune diseases—conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body—are another area where women are disproportionately affected. Globally, around 80%[v] of autoimmune disease cases occur in women. These include conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
While there’s no single explanation, researchers suggest hormonal differences, genetics, and environmental triggers all play a role. The result? Millions of women living with chronic fatigue, joint pain, and systemic health complications—often without adequate recognition or specialised care.
“Autoimmune disorders can take years to diagnose, leaving women feeling unheard and untreated,” says Joffe. “We need more awareness, better screening, and investment in women-centred research.”
By addressing women’s health holistically, we will be able to:
- Promote preventative screenings for diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol, and autoimmune red flags.
- Expand access to mental health support, including digital tools that make care more affordable and private.
- Invest in women-centred research, recognising that women’s health extends far beyond reproduction.
“South African women deserve more than fragmented care,” says Joffe. “By broadening the conversation, we can empower women to take charge of their health at every stage of life.”
For more information, please visit http://www.unuhealth.org
[i] Nearly half of women in Africa will be obese or overweight by 2030 – study | Global health | The Guardian
[ii] Heart Health – BonitasFemaleHealth
[iii] Psychological and Physical Co-Morbidity among Urban South African Women – PMC
[iv] Costs of common perinatal mental health problems in South Africa – PMC
[v] Autoimmune Diseases – Society for Women’s Health Research