This Men’s Health Month, experts warn that millions may be living with early-stage heart, kidney and metabolic conditions without knowing it. New international research shows early heart dysfunction often goes undiagnosed – a worrying reality in South Africa, where hypertension, diabetes and kidney disease are already widespread.
High blood pressure affects nearly one in three South African adults, yet many are either unaware of their condition or not adequately controlled. This creates a ripple effect, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure and diabetes-related complications.
Men may be especially vulnerable, as they are often less likely to seek preventative healthcare or undergo routine screening until symptoms become severe.
Doctors now refer to this cluster as cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome – a term describing how heart disease, kidney disease and metabolic disorders like diabetes don’t occur in isolation, but rather fuel one another. For instance, high blood pressure (hypertension) can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, while poorly controlled blood sugar can accelerate both heart and kidney damage.
Growing evidence also points to a link between low testosterone levels and metabolic syndrome, especially in older men. Research published in the International Journal of Molecular Science shows that men with insulin resistance often tend to have lower overall testosterone levels, while weight gain itself may also contribute to a drop in testosterone. Some studies suggest that testosterone replacement therapy could help improve certain metabolic markers, including waist circumference and triglyceride levels (a type of fat found in the blood), both of which are linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
According to clinicians, delayed diagnosis is one of the biggest challenges. Many patients only seek care when symptoms become severe by which time organ damage may already be advanced. Chronic kidney disease, for instance, often develops silently, with symptoms only appearing in later stages.
“By the time clinicians see patients with complications, they are often managing damage rather than preventing it,” says Ingrid Singels, Associate Director of Scientific Products, at Pharma Dynamics. “That’s why early detection and a broader view of risk factors are so critical.”
Studies have shown that hypertension is a leading contributor to chronic kidney disease, alongside diabetes, with both conditions frequently underdiagnosed or poorly managed. In addition, socioeconomic barriers, limited access to routine screening and low awareness all contribute to delayed diagnosis.
This is where the concept of “knowing your numbers” becomes essential. Health experts are urging South Africans to regularly check their:
• Blood pressure
• Blood glucose (sugar levels)
• Cholesterol
• Kidney function (eGFR or creatinine levels)
These simple tests can provide an early warning of underlying problems long before symptoms appear.
In South Africa, screening is more accessible than many people realise. “Blood pressure checks are routinely available at pharmacies, clinics and GP practices,” Singels notes. “Blood glucose and kidney function tests can be done through a simple blood test at public clinics or private laboratories. Many medical schemes also cover annual wellness screenings, while public sector clinics offer these services at low or no cost.”
Importantly, she highlights that doctors are also changing how they approach treatment.
“Rather than focusing on a single issue, like high blood pressure alone, healthcare providers are now targeting the broader cardiometabolic risk profile,” she explains. “This means addressing blood pressure, cholesterol, kidney health and lifestyle factors together to reduce the overall risk of serious complications.”
Detecting these conditions early can greatly reduce the risk of serious complications and even small, consistent lifestyle changes can have a meaningful impact on long term health. Singels recommends:
• Controlling your blood pressure
• Managing your blood sugar levels with a diabetic-friendly diet
• Reducing salt intake, which is particularly relevant in South Africa where average consumption exceeds recommended levels
• Maintaining a healthy weight and staying physically active
• Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco
• Following prescribed treatment plans consistently
• Regular screening and monitoring for hypertension and/ or diabetes
When it comes to heart, kidney and metabolic health, early detection remains one of the most powerful tools for prevention. For men, in particular, routine screening may help uncover silent risks before they lead to serious complications.
“Screening is quick, accessible and potentially lifesaving. It’s one of the most practical steps anyone can take to protect their long-term health,” emphasises Singels.
With non-communicable diseases on the rise in South Africa, awareness and timely action has never been more important.