Women, poverty and sport: A South African scenario

2002 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
pp. 23-47 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cora Burnett
Keyword(s):  
South African ◽  
African Women ◽  
Gender Inequalities ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Chronic Poverty ◽  
Women's Participation ◽  
Close Proximity ◽  
Role Players ◽  
South African Women ◽  
The Impact

The voices of South African feminists and womanists are relatively absent from public debates concerning women’s participation and empowerment in sport. This paper represents a contribution to the gender discourse, drawing on feminist paradigms and reflecting on the marginality of South African women in society and in sport. The findings of two separate studies, undertaken in 1977 and 1999 respectively, are reported. The research focused on the assessment of the impact of the Sports Leaders Programme (as part of the South Africa-United Kingdom Sports Initiative) and the junior component of the sports development programme initiated by the Australian Sports Commission (Super Kidz). Data were collected by means of structured interviews from different stakeholders at macro- (national), meso- (community/institutional) and micro- (individual) levels. A representative sample for the Sports Leaders Programme included 17 co-ordinators and facilitators (at national and provincial levels) and nine sports leaders at community level. To obtain qualitative data concerning the Super Kidz Programme, two provinces were targeted for data collection. A quota sample of seven schools was selected as the experimental group (having introduced the programme) and five schools in close proximity acted as controls. One hundred and forty-four role-players at different levels of participation were interviewed. To obtain some triangulation of data, 110 role-players also participated in focus groups. The data reflecting the position and involvement of women in these programmes were analysed. Against the reality of the majority of women living in conditions of chronic poverty, exposed to patriarchy, being ideologically stereotyped and structurally marginalized, they were, to a large extent absent, and their efforts unrecognised in the institutionalised domain of sport. It was concluded that sport is a severely gendered domain in which male hegemony is acted out and perpetuated whereas women in impoverished communities view access to sport as peripheral in their everyday struggle for material survival. National agencies should therefore not rely on female volunteers to facilitate sports development in impoverished communities but to strategize differently while also redressing ideological and structural gender inequalities in the wider social context.

scholarly journals Food fortification improves the intake of all fortified nutrients, but fails to meet the estimated dietary requirements for vitamins A and B6, riboflavin and zinc, in lactating South African women

2012 ◽  
Vol 15 (10) ◽  
pp. 1810-1817 ◽  
Author(s):  
Peggy C Papathakis ◽  
Kerry E Pearson
Keyword(s):  
South African ◽  
African Women ◽  
Serum Folate ◽  
Zn Deficiency ◽  
Serum Retinol ◽  
Food Records ◽  
Micronutrient Intake ◽  
Dietary Requirements ◽  
South African Women ◽  
The Impact

AbstractObjectiveTo investigate the impact of fortification by comparing food records and selected biochemical indicators of nutritional status pre- and post-fortification.DesignMean intake from 24 h recalls (n 142) was compared with the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) to determine the proportion with inadequate intake. In a subsample (n 34), diet and serum retinol, folate, ferritin and Zn were compared pre- and post-fortification for fortified nutrients vitamin A, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid, Fe and Zn.SettingSouth Africa.SubjectsBreast-feeding women (ninety-four HIV-infected, forty eight HIV-uninfected) measured at ∼6, 14, 24 weeks, and 9 and 12 months postpartum.ResultsPre-fortification, >80 % of women did not meet the EAR for vitamins A, C, D, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, B6, B12 and folate and minerals Zn, iodine and Ca. Dietary intake post-fortification increased for all fortified nutrients. In post-fortification food records, >70 % did not meet the EAR for Zn and vitamins A, riboflavin and B6. Serum folate and Zn increased significantly post-fortification (P < 0·001 for both), with no change in ferritin and a reduction in retinol. Post-fortification marginal/deficient folate status was reduced (73·5 % pre v. 3·0 % post; P < 0·001), as was Zn deficiency (26·5 % pre v. 5·9 % post; P < 0·05). Pre- and post-fortification, >93 % were retinol replete. There was no change in Fe deficiency (16·7 % pre v. 19·4 % post; P = 0·728).ConclusionsMicronutrient intake improved with fortification, but >70 % of lactating women did not meet the EAR for Zn, vitamins A, riboflavin and B6. Although 100 % exceeded the EAR for Fe after fortification, Fe status did not improve.

scholarly journals Dietary intake and body composition in HIV-positive and -negative South African women

2013 ◽  
Vol 17 (7) ◽  
pp. 1603-1613 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stephanie V Wrottesley ◽  
Lisa K Micklesfield ◽  
Matthew M Hamill ◽  
Gail R Goldberg ◽  
Ann Prentice ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Body Composition ◽  
Dietary Intake ◽  
South African ◽  
Overweight And Obesity ◽  
African Women ◽  
Hiv Positive ◽  
Cd4 Counts ◽  
South African Women ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Hiv Negative

AbstractObjectiveThe present paper examines dietary intake and body composition in antiretroviral (ARV)-naïve HIV-positive compared with HIV-negative South African women, as well as the impact of disease severity on these variables.DesignBaseline data from a longitudinal study assessing bone health in HIV-negative and HIV-positive premenopausal South African women over 18 years of age were used. Anthropometry and body composition, measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, were analysed together with dietary intake data assessed using an interviewer-based quantitative FFQ.SettingSoweto, Johannesburg, South Africa.SubjectsBlack, urban South African women were divided into three groups: (i) HIV-negative (HIV−; n 98); (ii) HIV-positive with preserved CD4 counts (HIV+ non-ARV; n 74); and (iii) HIV-positive with low CD4 counts and due to start ARV treatment (HIV+ pre-ARV; n 75).ResultsThe prevalence of overweight and obesity was high in this population (59 %). The HIV+ pre-ARV group was lighter and had a lower BMI than the other two groups (all P < 0·001). HIV+ pre-ARV women also had lower fat and lean masses and percentage body fat than their HIV− and HIV+ non-ARV counterparts. After adjustment, there were no differences in macronutrient intakes across study groups; however, fat and sugar intakes were high and consumption of predominantly refined food items was common overall.ConclusionHIV-associated immunosuppression may be a key determinant of body composition in HIV-positive women. However, in populations with high obesity prevalence, these differences become evident only at advanced stages of infection.

scholarly journals The Impact of Structured Support Groups for Pregnant South African Women Recently Diagnosed HIV Positive

2011 ◽  
Vol 51 (6) ◽  
pp. 546-565 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jonathan P. Mundell ◽  
Maretha J. Visser ◽  
Jennifer D. Makin ◽  
Trace S. Kershaw ◽  
Brian W. C. Forsyth ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
South African ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
African Women ◽  
Hiv Positive ◽  
South African Women ◽  
The Impact

scholarly journals Emotional intelligence in South African women leaders in higher education

2017 ◽  
Vol 43 (0) ◽  
Author(s):  
Claude-Hélène Mayer ◽  
Rudolf M. Oosthuizen ◽  
Sabie Surtee
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
South Africa ◽  
Emotional Intelligence ◽  
Women Leaders ◽  
South African ◽  
African Women ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Leadership Qualities ◽  
South African Women

Orientation: This study contributes to an in-depth understanding of emotional intelligence (EI) in women leaders in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in South Africa from an inside perspective.Research purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore EI in South African women leaders working in HEIs to identify women leader’s strengths, foci and their possible areas of development. The aim is to get deeper insights in EI in women leaders because EI is associated with effective leadership qualities, creativity and innovation, as well as empathetic communication which is needed in the challenging HEI workplaces.Motivation for the study: Emotional intelligence is an important source for women leaders to increase leadership qualities. This study is motivated by a deep interest to explore aspects of EI in women leaders in this specific professional context.Research design, approach and method: The study uses a qualitative research design and an approach based on Dilthey’s modern hermeneutics of ‘Verstehen’ (understanding). Twenty-three women leaders of the Higher Education Research Service (HERS-SA) network were interviewed through semi-structured interviews. One researcher observed behaviour in one HEI to support the interpretation of the data. Data were analysed through content analysis.Main findings: Findings show that women leaders mainly refer to intrapersonal emotional quotient (EQ), followed by interpersonal EQ, adaptability, stress management and, finally, general mood. The most highly rated components of EQ are self-regard, followed by interpersonal relationships, problem solving, empathy, emotional self-awareness, assertiveness, impulse control and social responsibility. Findings also provide ideas on what EQ components can be further developed.Practical/managerial implications: New insights are provided on what components of EI should be developed in women leaders to increase overall EI, on cognitive and behavioural levels.Contribution/value-add: This research provides new and original context-specific insights on EI in HEIs in South Africa, which can be used as a basis for future research on women leaders while providing a knowledge base for contemporary training of EI in HEIs.

The impact of trauma on South African women with HIV: The role of anxiety and physical symptomology

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-8
Author(s):  
Abigail S Robbertz ◽  
Martha N Ishiekwene ◽  
Olivia L Hucks ◽  
Lisa Armistead
Keyword(s):  
South African ◽  
African Women ◽  
Women With Hiv ◽  
South African Women ◽  
The Impact

scholarly journals Young South African Women on Antiretroviral Therapy Perceptions of a Psychological Counselling Program to Reduce Heavy Drinking and Depression

2020 ◽  
Vol 17 (7) ◽  
pp. 2249 ◽  
Author(s):  
Petal Petersen Williams ◽  
Carrie Brooke-Sumner ◽  
John Joska ◽  
James Kruger ◽  
Lieve Vanleeuw ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Antiretroviral Therapy ◽  
South African ◽  
Young Women ◽  
Life Experiences ◽  
Heavy Drinking ◽  
Psychological Trauma ◽  
African Women ◽  
South African Women ◽  
The Impact

Young women in South Africa remain most at risk for HIV infection. Several factors contribute to the high incidence rate in this population, including hazardous drinking and depression. Addressing common mental disorders (CMDs) such as depression and alcohol use disorders is key to effective HIV treatment. We explored the experiences and perceptions of young South African women on antiretroviral therapy (ART) of a lay health worker (LHW)-delivered psychosocial intervention based on motivational interviewing (MI) and problem-solving therapy (PST) to reduce heavy drinking and depression. We conducted 27 in-depth interviews with young women (aged 18–35) recruited from 16 primary care clinics in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Discussion topics included young women’s life experiences leading to their enrollment in the program, their perceptions of the counselling sessions and the quality of their interaction with the counsellor. Qualitative data were analyzed using a framework approach. The findings highlighted the impact adverse life experiences and stressful life circumstances have on young women’s use of alcohol and symptoms of depression and the effect this has on ART adherence. The findings suggest that women found the intervention components that helped them develop strategies for coping with their past experiences, managing current life stressors, and regulating negative thoughts and emotions most beneficial. Taken together, these findings confirm the acceptability of LHW-delivered MI-PST counselling for this population, but suggest that the relevance of the MI-PST intervention for this highly vulnerable population could be further enhanced by including a focus on psychological trauma.

scholarly journals Knowledge and Attitudes of Black South African Women toward Menopause: Impact of Culture and Traditions

2017 ◽  
Vol 5 (2) ◽  
pp. 117-122
Author(s):  
Lineo Matsela ◽  
Olakunle Towobola ◽  
Ephraim T Mokgokong
Keyword(s):  
South African ◽  
Formal Education ◽  
Hormone Replacement ◽  
African Women ◽  
Vasomotor Symptoms ◽  
Black South African ◽  
Knowledge And Attitudes ◽  
South African Women ◽  
The Impact

ABSTRACT Introduction Vasomotor symptoms of menopause could affect the quality-of-life of most women. The understanding of menopause by African women and the coping mechanisms of these women are essential factors that may be influenced by culture and traditions. This study has evaluated the psychosomatic and sociodemographic profiles of menopausal black South African women in order to ascertain the role played by their culture and traditions during the menopausal years. Materials and methods The study was carried out at three periurban districts close to the city of Pretoria, South Africa. A qualitative, prospective, community-based, cohort study was conducted over a 2-year period. The targeted population included women between 40 and 80 years, and each woman was interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Data on sociodemographic, psychosomatic profiles of the women as well as cultural and traditional beliefs relating to menopause were documented. The data from the study were analyzed by descriptive statistics. Results Totally, 450 women were interviewed: 250 (perimenopausal) and 200 (postmenopausal). The ages of the women ranged between 42.5 and 50.8 years (perimenopausal) and between 51.5 and 68.4 years for postmenopausal women. Only 20% of the women interviewed for the study had no formal education and 78% of them were financially independent. The percentage of the women who had an understanding of menopause and expressed cultural explanations for it was 96%. The women explained the impact of support systems on which they relied and by which their attitudes toward menopause were greatly influenced. Knowledge of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and its importance in the alleviation of vasomotor symptomatology ranged between 80 and 84%, yet the women were reluctant to seek medical remedy for their vasomotor symptoms. Conclusion The study provides insight into the impact that traditions and culture of black South African women have on their capacity to cope with menopause. How to cite this article Matsela L, Towobola O, Mokgokong ET. Knowledge and Attitudes of Black South African Women toward Menopause: Impact of Culture and Traditions. J South Asian Feder Menopause Soc 2017;5(2):117-122.

Impact of point-of-care testing and treatment of sexually transmitted infections and bacterial vaginosis on genital tract inflammatory cytokines in a cohort of young South African women

2021 ◽  
pp. sextrans-2020-054740
Author(s):  
Nigel Garrett ◽  
Andile Mtshali ◽  
Farzana Osman ◽  
Lindi Masson ◽  
Lyle R McKinnon ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
South African ◽  
Inflammatory Cytokines ◽  
Point Of Care ◽  
Principal Component ◽  
African Women ◽  
Tnf Α ◽  
Vaginal Health ◽  
South African Women ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Pro Inflammatory Cytokines

ObjectivesSTIs cause inflammation that is detrimental for both HIV risk and reproductive health. We assessed the impact of point-of-care (POC) STI testing, immediate treatment and expedited partner therapy (EPT) on genital tract cytokines among a cohort of young South African women.MethodsHIV-negative women underwent POC testing for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) by Xpert CT/NG and OSOM TV, and for bacterial vaginosis (BV) by microscopy. Women with STIs and/or BV received immediate treatment, EPT for STIs and retested after 6 and 12 weeks. Concentrations of 48 cytokines were measured in cervicovaginal fluid at each visit using multiplex ELISA technology. The impact of STI treatment on cytokine concentrations was assessed by multivariable linear mixed models and principal component analysis.ResultsThe study enrolled 251 women with median age of 23 years (IQR 21–27). The prevalence of CT, NG and TV were 14.3%, 4.4% and 4.0%, and 34.3% had BV. Women with STIs or BV at baseline (n=94) had significantly higher concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, TNF-β, IL-18 and macrophage inflammatory factor (MIF)) and chemokines (IL-8, IL-16, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1α, IFN-α2, monokine induced by gamma interferon (MIG), monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-3, regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted and eotaxin) compared with women without (n=157). STI treatment was strongly associated with reduced concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 (p=0.004), IL-1β (p=0.013), TNF-α (p=0.018) and chemokines MIG (p=0.008) and growth-related oncogene (GRO)-α (p=0.025). A lower Nugent score was associated with a reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1α (p=0.003), TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (p=0.004), MIF (p=0.010) and IL-18 (p<0.001), but an increase in chemokines MIG (p=0.020), GRO-α (p<0.001), IP-10 (p<0.001), MIP-1β (p=0.008) and MCP-1 (p=0.005). Principal component analysis showed differences in STI and BV-related inflammatory profiles, but that resolution restored a profile consistent with vaginal health.ConclusionsA comprehensive STI intervention effectively reduced genital inflammation among young women, thereby improving vaginal health and potentially reducing HIV risk.

scholarly journals Adiponectin DNA methylation in South African women with gestational diabetes mellitus: Effects of HIV infection

PLoS ONE ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. e0248694
Author(s):  
Stephanie Dias ◽  
Sumaiya Adam ◽  
Yoonus Abrahams ◽  
Paul Rheeder ◽  
Carmen Pheiffer
Keyword(s):  
Diabetes Mellitus ◽  
Dna Methylation ◽  
Gestational Diabetes ◽  
Hiv Infection ◽  
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus ◽  
South African ◽  
African Women ◽  
Potential Biomarker ◽  
South African Women ◽  
The Impact

DNA methylation is increasingly recognized as a potential biomarker of metabolic disease. However, there is limited information on the impact of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection on the candidacy of DNA methylation to serve as molecular biomarkers. This study investigated the effect of HIV infection on DNA methylation patterns in the peripheral blood of South African women with (n = 95) or without (n = 191) gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). DNA methylation levels at eight CpG sites in the adiponectin gene (ADIPOQ) promoter were measured using bisulfite conversion and pyrosequencing. Differences between HIV negative (-) and positive (+) women were observed. In HIV- women, methylation at CpG -3400 was lower in GDM+ women compared to those with normoglycemia (8.5-fold; p = 0.004), and was associated with higher fasting glucose (β-co-efficient = 0.973; p = 0.006) and lower adiponectin (β-co-efficient = -0.057; p = 0.014) concentrations. These associations were not observed in HIV+ women. In silico analysis showed that Transcription Factor AP2-alpha is able to bind to the altered CpG site, suggesting that CpG -3400 may play a functional role in the regulation of ADIPOQ expression. Our findings show that DNA methylation differs by HIV status, suggesting that HIV infection needs to be taken into consideration in studies exploring DNA methylation as a biomarker of GDM in high HIV prevalence settings.

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