African expertise for European Society for Vascular Surgery committee

March 7, 2025

Netcare congratulates Prof Bhekifa Dube

The European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS), one of the world’s leading scientific organisations in vascular care, has invited Professor Bhekifa Dube to join its clinical practice guidelines committee. 

 

“We heartily congratulate Professor Dube on his achievement of being the only specialist from the continent selected to join this significant medical committee on the global stage,” says Alan Abrahams of Netcare’s Cape region.

 

Professor Dube, who completed his sub-specialist training at Groote Schuur Hospital through the University of Cape Town, is Head of the Clinical Unit at Livingstone Tertiary Hospital in Gqeberha and has been practising at Netcare Greenacres Hospital since February 2016. 

Professor Bhekifa Dube

Professor Bhekifa Dube 

As the sole ESVS Guidelines Committee representative from Africa, Professor Dube joins an elite group of international vascular surgeons – mainly based in Europe – to develop guidelines that will shape high standards in the future of vascular conditions treatment globally. 

 

The ESVS Vascular Surgery Guidelines Committee aims to provide the most comprehensive, up-to-date, and unbiased advice to clinicians to guide best practice in vascular care. 

 

“In our increasingly connected global society, we are very fortunate to have the opportunity to collaborate across continents and share collective learnings to strengthen the standard of care for patients the world over in line with the latest advances in our discipline,” says Professor Dube. 

 

“I look forward to contributing to the ESVS Clinical Practice Guidelines through participating in the Vascular Surgery Guidelines Committee and demonstrating South Africa’s growing expertise in this field.”

 

Professor Dube, who has extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, has a special interest in endovascular techniques and has contributed to academic articles published in the Journal of Endovascular Therapy and Cardiovascular Journal of South Africa, as well as participating in conferences including this year’s Surgical Update Conference 2025 in Cape Town. 

 

Reon van Rensburg, general manager of Netcare Greenacres Hospital, commended Professor Dube for his generosity in embracing the opportunity to share his insights as part of the ESVS Guidelines Committee while remaining committed to his patients here in South Africa. 

 

“With specialists of Professor Dube’s internationally sought-after calibre, Netcare Greenacres Hospital is honoured to provide world-class care for our patients right here in Gqeberha. We congratulate Professor Dube on this opportunity to showcase his knowledge and contribute to better outcomes for thousands of people worldwide,” Van Rensburg concludes. 

Paediatric Nephrologist Prof Rajendra Bhimma
March 11, 2025
Paediatric Nephrologist Professor Bhimma was recently awarded the Fellowship to acknowledge his extensive work in research, community-based outreach and teaching of paediatric nephrology, among others.
Rare Disease Day on 28 February 2025
February 28, 2025
The lives of millions of South Africans with a litany of rare diseases can be vastly improved, and even saved, by addressing challenges in identifying, studying and treating their conditions. With Rare Disease Day on the 28th of February 2025, the Rare Diseases Access Initiative (RDAI) is driving an evolution of the country’s healthcare, through innovative strategies to better care for over 4.2million people living with an estimated 7000 rare diseases. “As our healthcare system faces significant changes in the years ahead, it is vital that we also advocate for people living with rare diseases in South Africa, especially those with limited healthcare access,” said Kelly du Plessis, CEO of Rare Diseases South Africa (RDSA), a member of RDAI. “As part of our ongoing research and awareness efforts, RDAI has conducted an initial analysis of the incidence and prevalence of rare diseases within the country.” This research will assist in improving access to healthcare, policy development, and patient advocacy, while giving critical insight into the challenges faced by patients. “According to research, some rare diseases affect fewer than 1 in a million people, while others, such as Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, and haemophilia, have a more recognisable prevalence,” says Dr. Helen Malherbe, RDAI lead researcher on rare disease prevalence data. “Many conditions are undetected, underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed, with too many having no information available about them at all.” The RDAI was formed in 2019 to promote a more favourable environment for those impacted by rare diseases in South Africa. Participants include Ampath, the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF), Discovery Health, Genetic Counsellors South Africa (SASHG), the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS), Health Funders Association (HFA), Medihelp, Medscheme, North-West University (NWU), Rare Diseases South Africa (RDSA), the South African Medical Association (SAMA) and The South African Medical Technology Industry Association (SAMED). The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) participates as an observer. In the same year, Rare Disease International signed a memorandum of understanding with the World Health Organisation leading to an international rare disease policy framework. In 2021, the United Nations General Assembly moved to adopt a resolution recognising 300 million people living with rare diseases worldwide. “A general lack of awareness and delayed diagnosis remain major hurdles for those affected by rare diseases. Policymakers and healthcare stakeholders need to prioritise access to treatment, diagnosis, and support for rare disease patients,” says Bada Pharasi, CEO of IPASA, “Through this initiative, working collaboratively with stakeholders at every level of the healthcare supply chain, we can bring real and meaningful change to those affected, including family members and care givers, through smart and efficient strategies.” The globally agreed definition of a rare disease is any medical condition with a specific pattern of clinical signs, symptoms, and findings that affects fewer than or equal to 1 in 2000 persons in a population. “Most are genetic, and some are inherited and passed down in families,” Malherbe says. “Some affect only the patient’s genetic recipe, while others may be acquired during life due to infection, trauma, or environmental effects. For many, the cause is still unknown. “These conditions mainly affect children, as they are largely incurable and many are life-threatening. Some require specialised and co-ordinated care, some have limited and expensive treatment options, while others have no information or effective treatments at all,” she adds. The RDAI is calling for a patient-centred care model built on equitable access, transparency and efficiency. Naturally, this model calls for the open participation of patients, the healthcare industry, health professionals, and the Government. “The most critical elements are robust diagnosis standards, improved access to treatment, data collection and management, co-ordination of care, measurement of outcomes and ongoing collaborative research,” du Plessis says. “We need to establish rare disease advisory committees, map gaps and opportunities, establish system requirements, create a roadmap and plan a phased implementation with clear timelines.” The RDAI states that these policy development steps would be a start in quantifying the disease burden and defining standards of care. This would be followed by building and strengthening the capacity to facilitate appropriate diagnosis, treatment, continuity and data monitoring. Thoneshan Naidoo, Chief Executive Officer of the Health Funders Association noted that, “We appreciate the unique opportunity provided by RDAI which enables stakeholders across the industry to work together and identify strategies that improve equitable access to the appropriate diagnosis, treatment and healthcare services for rare disease patients, in an affordable and sustainable manner, taking account of the other pressing needs across the healthcare system.” “True innovation in healthcare is only possible through partnerships and joint advocacy efforts that raise awareness and improve access to treatment. Our long-term goal is the development of a rare diseases policy framework and guidelines for coordinated care,” says Pharasi. “Our members are united in the commitment to unlocking improved patient outcomes and improving access to services and robust health needs assessment facilities.” he concludes. About RDAI The Rare Diseases Access Initiative (RDAI) is dedicated to advocating for improved healthcare access, policy development, and patient support for those affected by rare diseases in South Africa. The initiative brings together key healthcare stakeholders, including pharmaceutical associations, funders, genetic specialists, and patient advocacy groups, to drive impactful change. About RDSA Founded in 2013, Rare Diseases South Africa (RDSA) is a non-profit organisation advocating to ensure that people living with rare diseases and congenital disorders experience greater recognition, support, improved health service and better overall quality of life. Started out of personal need following the diagnosis of organisation founder, Kelly du Plessis' son, it became evident that there was a lack of awareness and support for rare diseases in general in South Africa. About IPASA The Innovative Pharmaceutical Association South Africa (IPASA) is a voluntary trade association representing 24 leading pharmaceutical companies committed to research, development, and innovation. Our mission is to drive healthcare advancement by advocating for policies that improve patient access to safe, high-quality, and affordable medicines.
Gastroenterologist Dr Barbara Makumbi explains the toll acid reflux can take on your health
February 26, 2025
Gastroenterologist Dr. Barbara Makumbi discusses common risk factors and offers tips for managing reflux and the longer-term condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD).
Netcare St Anne’s Hospital emergency department now has both trauma and emergency  specialists.
February 19, 2025
From treating trauma injuries caused by wildlife, road accidents and sports, to heart attacks, stroke, or the sudden onset of other concerning medical symptoms – the emergency department at Netcare St Anne’s Hospital never sleeps.
Making sense of self-harm
February 10, 2025
As many as one in ten teenagers may self-harm, often in secret, concealing the scars or evidence of their injuries. As Teen Suicide Prevention Week approaches, Netcare Akeso is highlighting the often-hidden struggle of self-harm among young people.
Dr Prinitha Pillay is a radiation and clinical oncologist
February 4, 2025
With one in four South Africans affected by cancer, either directly or through a loved one’s diagnosis, the importance of regular screenings cannot be overstated.
Melanoma awereness
January 27, 2025
This SunSmart Skin Cancer Awareness Month, oncologists Dr Sylvia Rodrigues and Dr Karen Motilall stress the importance of sun protection and regular screening for melanoma in South Africa's sunny climate.
Vitamin D is crucial for maintaining strong bones and a healthy immune system.
January 17, 2025
Vitamin D is crucial for maintaining strong bones and a healthy immune system. Dr Jay Narainsamy, an endocrinologist and specialist physician, explains why too much can negatively impact your health.
Dr Neville Vlok highlights health issues that could disrupt holiday celebrations
December 22, 2024
As the holiday season kicks off, it’s all too easy to get caught up in the festive spirit and overlook potential medical emergencies. Dr Neville Vlok, a specialist emergency medicine physician practising in the emergency department at Netcare Unitas Hospital, highlights four health issues that could disrupt even the most carefully planned holiday celebrations.
Radiology concept
December 11, 2024
Clinical oncologists Dr Sylvia Rodrigues and Dr Karen Motilall have been prescribing radiation treatments for their cancer patients requiring this treatment modality, with the Varian TrueBeam™ 4.0 linear accelerator (linac), for the past year and have seen the equipment’s versatility and advantages for patients.
More Posts
Share by: