Exposure to radioactive materials can result in injury to human cells and cause life-threatening diseases like cancer. The properties of some radioactive materials has made it useful to medical science as it allows doctors to see internal structures of the body without having to penetrate the skin, like x-rays for example. However, radiation can be dangerous if the type of radiation used is harmful to the human body and if there is prolonged or a short but large dose of radiation exposure.
The incidence of lymph node cancer is increasing globally and is more common in developed nations. However the rise in lymph node cancer in South Africa may often be attributed to the high incidence of HIV/AIDS although this is not the only cause. Due to the nature of the area, there is always a risk of rapid spread as the lymph nodes are connected to each other through the vast network of vessels that make up the lymphatic system.
Skin cancer is a broad term for different types of tumours that affect the skin. There are three main types of skin cancer known as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Other types of skin cancer like Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) and Kaposi sarcoma are not common, however Kaposi sarcoma is often seen in South Africa due to its tendency to affect HIV/AIDS patients.
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the mesothelial lining (mesothelium) which is present around certain organs in different parts of the body. It may be more likely to occur in the lining around the lungs (pleural mesothelioma) or abdominal cavity (peritoneal mesothelioma) although it can also occur in the lining around the heart (pericardial mesothelioma) or testicles. Mesothelioma has received a significant amount of media attention, especially pleural mesothelioma (lung), due to its link with environmental factors and asbestos. In South Africa, mesothelioma has been in the spotlight more than once, mainly relating to claims against mining companies.
Maternity benefits included
Pre-existing conditions covered (excl HIV/Aids)