Dr Criselda Kananda is renowned for her dedication to health equity and her advocacy in human development, rights, and social cohesion. Recently appointed as the innovative product specialist at the Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology, she continues to lead with passion and expertise.
Glamour: Can you tell us more about your new role at the Centre for for Diabetes and Endocronology and what inspired you to take on this position?
Dr Kananda: Thank you for the opportunity to share about my new role as the innovative product specialist at the Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology(CDE). In this position, I am responsible for identifying, developing, and implementing cutting-edge products and solutions that enhance patient care and improve outcomes for individuals living with diabetes and other endocrine disorders.
What inspired me to take on this role is my deep-rooted passion for advancing healthcare for all. Having worked in the field of health advocacy and broadcasting for several years, I’ve witnessed first hand the challenges that patients face, as well as the rapid advancements in technology and treatment options. I may be a generation born before technology and a technophobe of note but I do believe that by leveraging new technologies and innovative approaches, we can significantly improve the management of diabetes and endocrine disorders. I’m also a firm believer that change is an integral part of life and it is inevitable.
Additionally, I am motivated by the opportunity to collaborate with industry greats like Dr Grant Newton the Group CEO of CDE and a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, researchers, and industry partners. Together, we can drive change, develop educational programs, and create tools that empower patients to take control of their health. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to a future where diabetes and endocrine disorders are managed more effectively, leading to better quality of life for patients and their families. I am excited to be part of this transformative journey at the Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology.
Glamour: how do you believe women in healthcare are uniquely positioned to address health disparities, particularly in the field of diabetes care?
Dr Kananda: Women are often at the forefront of healthcare delivery, and their perspectives and experiences can significantly influence patient outcomes and community health. Women in healthcare often bring strong empathetic communication skills, which are crucial in building trust with patients. This is particularly important in diabetes care, where understanding people’s lifestyle, cultural background and personal challenges can lead to more tailored treatment plans and better compliance and adherence to health management strategies. As women, we are uniquely positioned to address health gaps through our empathetic approach, advocacy, community engagement and commitment to holistic care. This is vital in creating equitable healthcare systems that cater to the diverse needs of all patients.
Glamour: You’re known for your advocacy and commitment to health equity. How does your new role at CDE align with your mission to improve healthcare standards in South Africa?
Dr Kananda: My new role at the Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology (CDE) aligns seamlessly with my mission to improve healthcare standards and promote health equity in South Africa. Here are several ways in which this alignment manifests:
Focus on Patient-Centered Care: At the CDE, my work emphasizes the importance of patient-cantered care, which is essential for addressing health gaps experienced by our society. By identifying or developing innovative products and solutions that cater to the specific needs of diverse patient populations, I aim to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status or background, have access to effective diabetes management tools and basic education.
Community Engagement and Education: A significant part of my role involves engaging with communities to raise awareness about diabetes and its management a role I have played through my broadcast career and as a health advocate. By creating educational programs and resources tailored to different demographics, though this is an offering already available through CDE’s Academy and our weekly podcast delivered by renowned scientist Mr Michael Brown and Iconic Diabetologist and teacher Dr Stan Landau, through my experience I will help reach and empower a larger patient pull with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health. This aligns with my commitment to ensuring that marginalized communities receive the information and support necessary to manage their conditions effectively.
Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Teams: The CDE fosters collaboration among healthcare professionals, researchers, and community organizations. This multidisciplinary approach allows us to tackle the complex factors contributing to existing health gaps and limited access. By working together, we can develop comprehensive strategies that address not only the clinical aspects of diabetes care but also the social determinants of health that impact patient outcomes.
Advocacy for Policy Change: In my role, I have the opportunity to advocate for policies that promote health equity and improve healthcare access in South Africa. By leveraging data and insights gained from our initiatives, I can contribute to discussions on healthcare reform that prioritize equitable access to diabetes care and resources for all individuals.
Innovation and Technology: My focus on innovative products allows me to explore how technology can bridge gaps in healthcare access. For instance, developing digital health solutions can help reach underserved populations, providing them with tools for self-management and remote support. This aligns with my belief that leveraging technology is crucial for improving healthcare standards and making care more accessible.
Research and Evidence-Based Practice: By contributing to research initiatives at the CDE, I can help generate evidence that supports best practices in diabetes care. This research can inform government policy, improve clinical guidelines to become inclusive, and ultimately lead to better health outcomes for patients across South Africa.
Glamour: The introduction of AI-driven health screening products, such as the non-invasive diagnostic fundoscopy camera, represents a significant advancement. How do you see these technologies transforming diabetes care and management?
Dr Kananda: This FDA approved invention represents a significant advancement in diabetes care and management because most diabetes and endocrine related ailments are silent in nature and only manifest when damage is done. These technologies have the potential to transform the landscape of diabetes management in several impactful ways like improving early detection, enhancing accessibility, eliminating misdiagnosis and increasing diagnostic accuracy, enabling personalised care with electronic health record keeping. This will lead to a tailored approach, improvement of patient engagement and adherence to treatment.
The fundoscopy camera can screen up to 27 ill conditions that may not have been detected early enough to prevent health deterioration. Reports are generated in the cloud and can be tailored specifically on fit for purpose circumstance, within minutes when needed. Wellness days will cease to just become about basic screening to specialist level leading to accurate referrals.
Glamour: Can you share some of the specific challenges you’ve encountered as a woman in the healthcare sector, and how you have overcome them?
Dr Kananda: Publicly speaking about being diagnosed HIV positive has led me to being reduced to just an HIV infected person who is supposed to dim her light and shrink. I’m grateful that from diagnosis, I never self stigmatised and regarded people’s opinions as such. I’ve always believed that I am the captain of my ship and don’t really pay attention to how others perceive my struggles. I took it upon myself to increase my knowledge, access personal professional development and be intentional about personal growth trajectory. I make it part of my mission to not fall victim but rather challenge stereotypes including workplace harassment and unequal culture that women continue to face.
Glamour: Your journey from facing challenges to becoming a leading health advocate is quite remarkable. What have been some key moments or influences in your career that have shaped your path?
Dr Kananda: Thank you for your kind words! My journey to becoming a health advocate has indeed been shaped by several key moments and influences that have guided my path.
Personal Experiences: One of the most profound influences on my career was my own experiences with health challenges and discrimination, from being molested as a child, becoming a street kid whilst looking for my biological mother, being a young widow and experiencing gross human rights violations in the name of culture, contracting HIV infection whilst in a committed relationship and a public divorce due to gender based violence instilled in me a deep understanding of the importance of effective healthcare and the need for compassionate advocacy for human rights.
Mentorship: Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to encounter inspiring mentors who have guided me and provided invaluable support. Mama Winnie Madikizela Mandela being one of them for holding my hand tightly and building my strong character, I continue to draw strength in the many women in my cycle, I call it my vault. Surrounding myself with people who are not threatened by my success instead encourage and challenge me to be the best version of me. My vault contributes to my understanding the complexities of the healthcare field, and they contribute in what matters to me and the importance of advocacy, leadership, and resilience.
Although I had a challenging upbringing and wasn’t the smartest of learners growing up, I just never stopped being curious. My curiosity inspired an academic journey laid a strong foundation for my career. Engaging with diverse perspectives during my training as a nurse, marketing and business leadership development opened my eyes to the broader social determinants of health and the disparities that exist in healthcare access and outcomes and this led to my honorary doctorate in Social Work Philosophy. This knowledge has been instrumental in shaping my advocacy efforts.
In the early years of my broadcasting career, I had the opportunity to work directly with underserved communities. These experiences highlighted the systemic barriers individuals face in accessing quality healthcare. They fuelled my passion for health equity and inspired me to advocate for policies and programs that address these disparities.
Engaging in research projects that focused on innovative solutions to improve HIV care then to now diabetes care has been a significant influence. Being involved in the development of new approaches has reinforced my belief in the power of innovation to transform healthcare and improve patient outcomes.
Being a trustee for the Presidential response of HIV at SANAC, a strategic adviser for Khomanani a national department’s health advocacy platform, South African Woman in Dialogue trustee, African first ladies health advocacy facilitator and Africa Reach, an African-led effort intended to end AIDS in Africa, my participating in all these advocacy initiatives and public health campaigns has been both rewarding and enlightening.
Collaborating with various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profits, and community organizations, has deepened my understanding of the complexities of health policy and the importance of collective action. The Global Health Exposure has been an opportunity to engage with global health organizations and initiatives have broadened my perspective on health equity. Learning from different healthcare systems and cultural approaches to health has enriched my understanding and inspired me to think creatively about solutions to health challenges.
Being recognized as a leader in health advocacy has been both an honor and a responsibility. It has motivated me to continue pushing for change and to use my platform to amplify the voices of those who may not have the same opportunities to advocate for themselves. I am committed to being a lifelong student, remaining teachable has grounded me. Staying informed about emerging trends, technologies, and research in healthcare has empowered me to remain adaptable, relatable, relevant and innovative in my approach to advocacy. I am grateful for the experiences that have brought me to this point and look forward to continuing this important work in the future.
Glamour: In your view, what are the most pressing issues in diabetes care today, and how can innovative solutions like those you’re working on at CDE address these challenges?
Dr Kananda: Pressing issues in diabetes care, include high prevalence and rising Incidence: South Africa has one of the highest rates of diabetes in the world, with a growing number of cases. This places immense pressure on healthcare resources and necessitates effective management strategies. Many individuals, particularly in rural and underserved urban areas, face barriers to accessing diabetes care, including limited availability of healthcare facilities, healthcare professionals, and essential medications.
The lack of awareness and education, most people still lack significant awareness about diabetes, its risk factors, and the importance of early diagnosis and management among the general population. This can lead to late presentations and complications. Many patients struggle with self-management due to a lack of education, resources, and support. This can result in poor glycaemic control and increased risk of complications. Diabetes is associated with various complications, including cardiovascular disease, renal failure, and neuropathy. Managing these comorbidities adds complexity to patient care. Socioeconomic disparities contribute to health inequalities, with lower-income populations often experiencing higher rates of diabetes and poorer access to care and resources. Lastly, it’s a known fact that healthcare system in South Africa is fragmented, leading to inconsistencies in care and communication among healthcare providers.
Innovative Solutions Through CDE
The good news is that, while there are significant challenges in diabetes care in South Africa, innovation through the Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology can play a crucial role in addressing these issues. By leveraging technology, enhancing education, and fostering collaboration, we can improve patient outcomes and promote health equity in diabetes management.
Glamour: What advice would you give to young women aspiring to make a significant impact in the healthcare field?
Dr Kananda: I believe in the concept of “Passion pays Bills” identify what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life. Seek those who have walked before you and never underestimate the wisdom that comes from experience. Remain teachable and build strong networks. Prioritise self care in balance of body, mind and soul. Lastly trust the process.
Glamour: How do you balance your advocacy work with your role at CDE, and what are your future goals for advancing healthcare through this position?
Dr Kananda: I invest in leading with compassion, in this field compassion and empathy are vital. Should I ever catch myself focusing on making money more than saving lives and contributing to the quality of healthcare, I promise to walk away.
Glamour: As we look forward to more advancements in healthcare, what are your hopes for the future of diabetes management and health equity in South Africa?
Dr Kananda: That all healthcare providers could be aware of the social determinants of health and the gaps that exist. Collaborate more to provide equitable healthcare.
Glamour: What inspired your transition into diabetes care, and how do you see innovative technologies like AI-driven health screening products impacting the future of healthcare?
Dr Kananda: This move took me by surprise, CDE is a subsidiary of 3Sixty Global Solutions and the Chairman of the group Mr Khandani Msibi in agreement with the board believed I’d become a good fit to this role having served the group as a Corporate Affairs Executive. Being a risk taker, this opportunity felt daunting and moved me out of my comfort zone. Only to realise that my journey has come full cycle. In the health field, I am in my element. Developing integrated care models that bring together various health providers such as endocrinologists, general practitioners, dieticians and mental health professionals can ensure comprehensive management of diabetes and all its complications effectively. Making a lasting impact in the lives of both patients and professionals brings me joy.
Glamour: Can you tell us more about the non-invasive diagnostic fundoscopy camera and its potential impact on diabetes management in underprivileged communities?
Dr Kananda: Diabetes care in South Africa faces several pressing issues that impact patient outcomes and the overall healthcare system. Here are some of the key potential innovative solutions that the Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology (CDE) is implementing to address these challenges.
AI DRIVEN NON-INVASIVE DIAGNOSTICS
Most diagnostics require blood samples sent to the laboratory to detect and confirm illness, this includes a professional who draws blood samples into different lab specimen bottles, sent to the laboratory, results sent to the doctor after some time unless required immediately and this comes at an added cost to the health bill. The invasiveness is in the blood taking which has dominated the diagnostic landscape for many years.
With Non Invasive Fundoscopy and the insights associated with the micro-vascular system displayed as a blueprint of the body in the retina, which has historically only been in the hands of the optometrist & ophthalmology. Eye specialists. And now through the game changing non invasive diagnostics the capturing of the retina can tell a story about one’s overall health.
Today, the shift to handheld Fundoscopy coupled with AI, allows a primary caregiver, the ability to screen up-to 27 ill conditions, diagnose and help maintain patients. The FDA, have approved circa 5 AI engines that use biomarkers from fundoscopy photos to screen & diagnose a selection of diseases. Access to the prescribed benefit associated with ophthalmic and systemic disease, has until now, been held out of reach of the primary health system. AeyeConnect (CDE) has secured an exclusive license for one of the first and most optically superior fundoscopy cameras and, the license for the AI engine developed for best use on this camera for Africa. Added, ImagineAeye, using the AeyeConnect solution rollout, is developing an AI engine that facilitates real-time underwriting, using AI reports derived from fundoscopy for life, disability and health insurance in affluent and traditionally uninsured areas.
These are some of the benefits:
No more bleeding
No more long cues
No more fatigues and irritable health professionals
No more misdiagnosis
No waiting on lab results before treatment interventions in previously diagnosed cases.
Reports
Report is sent to the point of care within 30secs/ 3mins max
Reports are redacted according to scope of practice or specific clinical need
Reports and/or raw photos or biomarker data is housed in big data for population risk management.
CGM – CDE Direct Import & Manufacture
The innovative diabetes Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) technology, which offers a transformative approach to diabetes management and quality of life; by providing continuous blood glucose readings at costs comparable to traditional strips and glucose meters, CGM represents a significant advancement in diabetes care.
CGM devices provide real-time glucose monitoring throughout the day and night, offering numerous benefits over conventional finger-prick testing. This innovative technology reduces the need for frequent blood draws, improves glycaemic control, and helps lower the overall costs associated with diabetes care.
The CGM system consists of a small sensor attached to the skin, usually on the upper arm, which measures tissue glucose levels every few minutes. This data is then transmitted to a smartphone app via Bluetooth, giving users a continuous record of their blood sugar levels. The benefits of CGM include increased awareness of glucose fluctuations, fewer hypoglycaemic episodes, and improved insulin dose adjustments.
Research has shown that CGM significantly enhances glycaemic control, leading to better compliance with glucose targets and a reduced risk of complications. By integrating CGM into diabetes management plans, individuals can achieve improved health outcomes and reduced long-term healthcare costs.
Lastly for now is Whyweight program a guaranteed weight loss comprising of:
The relationship between diabetes and obesity is complex and multifaceted, involving a combination of physiological, genetic, and lifestyle factors. Addressing obesity through lifestyle interventions and promoting healthy habits is crucial for preventing the onset of type 2 diabetes and improving overall metabolic health. CDE has partners with various service providers and public health initiatives that focus on education, access to healthy foods, and opportunities for physical activity can play a significant role in combating both obesity and diabetes. Amongst the products are MiWell Shakes available in three flavours: Vanilla, Strawberry and Chocolate available at our CDE pharmacy store and our online platform. www.cdeonline.co.za/miwell and providing low calorie diet course for healthcare professionals at our CDE Academy.
Very low kilojoule meal replacement
High in protein to prevent muscle wasting
Gluten free
High in fibre
Low in saturated fat
Full spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals.
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