Pretoria - In 1998 women in South Africa are faced with new and increasing challenges which are HIV/AIDS, violence and discrimination. As they celebrate National Women's Day on August 9 women are bracing themselves for the continued and renewed struggle ag ainst these threats.
The Department of Health supports the activities with other role players in promoting women's health that took place today and those planned for Health and Happiness Week (9 - 16 August 1998) in Dobsonville Mall. During the Health and Happiness week severa l talks will be delivered, free blood tests, exhibitions with special focus on health issues, free eye tests and other health activities.
Reproductive Health Research Unit and the Department celebrated the day with a one day programme of information and training designed for health providers in Cedar Park Convention Centre in Woodmead.
"Most health care providers are women and most health care seekers are women. It is important to acknowledge the immeasurable contribution women make to the health of the nation", Dr Eddie Mhlanga, Director of Maternal and Women's Health.
Dr Helen Rees, Director: Reproductive Health Research Unit said that women need to prioritise the following important issues affecting their health:
Dr Rees said that microbicide research is being conducted to protect women against HIV/AIDS and STDs at Tto South African sites in Chris Hani Baragwanath and Durban in conjunction with Medical Research Council and Reproductive Health Research Unit. The res earch may offer new class of chemical barriers that will have better and more options for safer sex.
Contact: Mimi Vusani, tel: 012 - 312 0614, fax: 012 - 325 7814
Issued by: Department of Health, 7 August 1998