The UP Corporate Wellness Programme, presented in partnership with Bestmed Medical Scheme, is pleased to inform you that we are continuing with our monthly group intervention initiative during lunch breaks, from March to October 2017. The information sessions, which will be presented by a Bestmed medical health professional, are aimed at educating staff on a variety of health-related topics and helping them to make voluntary behavioural changes that will reduce health risks and enhance their productivity and well-being. All UP employees should contribute towards building a healthier and more positive workforce.

The third information session will deal with hepatitis. Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. The condition can be self-limiting or can progress to fibrosis (scarring), cirrhosis or liver cancer. Hepatitis viruses are the most common cause of hepatitis in the world, but other infections, toxic substances (e.g. alcohol, certain drugs), and autoimmune diseases can also cause hepatitis. There are five main hepatitis viruses, referred to as types A, B, C, D and E. These five types are of greatest concern because of the burden of illness and death they cause and the potential for outbreaks and epidemic spread. Hepatitis types B and C lead to chronic disease in hundreds of millions of people and, together, are the most common cause of liver cirrhosis and cancer. Those attending the session will gain a thorough understanding of the clinical picture of hepatitis, the key functions of the liver, the spread and presence as well as the testing and treatment methodologies. 

By the end of the information session, persons who attended should:

• have a basic overview of the clinical background of hepatitis and its symptoms,
• grasp the risk factors for developing hepatitis as well as the principles of diagnosing and treating hepatitis and liver health, and
• understand the importance of liver health and how the various components of a healthy lifestyle can impact on general health and well-being.

Date: Friday, 30 June 2017

Time: 12:30−13:15 

Presenter: Medical Health Practitioner 

Venue: Lecture Hall 2-2.7, Natural Sciences 1 Building, Hatfield Campus

Please note that an attendance register will be circulated and that participation is voluntary.

Further information can be obtained from the UP Wellness Coordinator, Stembiso Magagula, on 012 420 2870 or by sending an email to [email protected]. Please direct all enquiries to him only.

Join us and start making health and wellness a way of life!

Kind regards