Diabetes and men's health

"Diabetes is a silent disruptor that affects nearly every organ in the body. It does not discriminate - it impacts people of all races, genders and backgrounds," according to Dr Mabowa Makhomisane, a specialist in diabetes care based in Polokwane.

- Anne Mametja

Among the many health challenges diabetes presents, one that is often left unspoken - especially among men - is its impact on sexual function. Makhomisane highlights that many men living with long-term, uncontrolled diabetes are at increased risk of developing erectile dysfunction (ED), often without even realising the connection.

"In medical terms, we refer to this as 'starvation in the land of plenty', a situation where the body consumes food, but the nutrients fail to reach vital cells and nerves," he said.