Dreaded diseases can take you by surprise – make sure you are covered

Charles Makondo, National Sales Manager at iMas Insurance Brokers

An unexpected guest can make you stress and panic, how much more an unexpected, dreaded disease? Millions of South Africans do not prepare for the worst, the “it will never happen to me” mentality has left many people stressed and wondering what to do.

“The first step to prepare for the unexpected disease is to ensure that you have comprehensive insurance in place to cover you should you be diagnosed with a dreaded disease” advise Charles Makondo, National Sales Manager at iMas Insurance Brokers (formerly known as Iemas Insurance Brokers).

A dreaded disease can be defined as an illness which is critical and severe, this includes cancer, heart disease, organ failure and neurological or gastroenterological conditions. One in four South Africans is affected by cancer either through a family member, friend, colleague, or self (CANSA, 2022). The disease has no favourites, whatever race, age, or gender - any dreaded disease can affect you at any stage in your life.

“Dread disease cover provides financial relief after being diagnosed with a severe illness, you can modify your lifestyle, cover costs for your treatment, pay for home care assistance and pay your medical fees that are not covered by your medical aid.” says Makondo. Cancer is considered to be the most common disease in South Africa. Cancer can be caused by a variety of factors such as family history, smoking, hormones, chronic inflammation and more.

The body always gives a sign if you are not okay, some of the general signs of cancer are extreme tiredness, unexplained weight loss or gain, swelling or having lumps anywhere in your body, a cough that doesn’t go away, bladder changes, night sweats, vision or hearing problems.

“iMas Insurance Brokers is a credited financial services provider, offering comprehensive insurance that you can trust and afford. As a broker we strive to give our clients the best advice when it comes to securing the things and people they love – this includes making sure that they are covered against unexpected dreaded diseases” concludes Makondo.