As South Africa observes Heart Awareness Month, the South African Heart Association has launched an inspiring campaign “Check My Beat – Heart Health Tracks,” focusing on the critical importance of health screenings, particularly within the country’s bustling taxi industry.
This initiative targets taxi drivers, a group vital to the country’s daily functioning, by offering them instant, non-invasive health screenings that measure essential indicators such as blood pressure and heart rate.
According to Dr David Jankelow, a clinical cardiologist at Netcare Linksfield and a prominent figure in the campaign, the initiative addresses a crucial issue. “Taxi drivers keep South Africa moving, but their own health often takes a back seat,” he said.
“With Check My Beat, we’re not just offering screenings; we’re creating a movement that speaks to people in a language they understand, music, and proving that prevention is the strongest beat of all.”
This creative approach not only prioritises the health of those who transport millions daily but also seeks to redefine how we view healthcare within such communities.
Another partner, JoziMyJozi highlighted the initiative’s broader significance, stating, “We are honoured to stand alongside our partners in driving this groundbreaking initiative within the taxi industry. We believe that prioritising the health and well-being of taxi drivers is not only a matter of care but also a cornerstone of safe, secure, and efficient transport operations that keep our nation moving.”
The campaign is the culmination of a successful pilot conducted in 2024, during which alarming health statistics emerged.
Out of the taxi drivers screened, an astounding 75% were found to be overweight, while only one in four maintained a healthy BMI. For many, this was the first heart assessment they had encountered in their lives, revealing a glaring gap in healthcare access for communities that drive South Africa’s economy.
Alongside the screenings, the initiative also aims to educate the next generation of healthcare innovators. It is revealed that over 20 students will receive training in AI-driven healthcare, blending technology with community needs.
It is explained that by bringing screenings directly into the lives of taxi drivers, Check My Beat not only addresses urgent health concerns but also re-humanises these drivers, portraying them as multifaceted individuals, fathers, mothers, breadwinners, and community leaders whose contributions are invaluable.
This campaign is a collaborative effort that includes Anglo American, Abby, Betway Cares Foundation, Cipla, JoziMyJozi, Nahana Communications Group, Wits University, and the World Heart Federation, bringing the necessary expertise, resources, and unwavering commitment to ensure heart health is accessible to those who serve on the frontline of South Africa's transport system.
Saturday Star